Upcoming SUVs 2026: In the Indian auto market, the mid-size SUV segment has long been ruled by the Hyundai Creta. For the past 10 years, this car has remained at the top of the sales charts thanks to its stylish design, rich features, and strong performance. However, in 2026, its dominance is set to face strong competition from three new SUVs — Tata Sierra, New Gen Kia Seltos, and New Renault Duster. Let’s learn more about these upcoming models.
Tata Sierra:
Let’s start with the Tata Sierra. This iconic name from Tata Motors has been popular in the Indian market since 1991 and is now making a comeback in an all-new avatar in 2026. According to reports, the electric version of the Sierra will be launched first, expected to hit the market in early FY2026. The EV will come with two battery pack options, offering a driving range of over 500 km. Following the EV, ICE (petrol-diesel) versions of the Sierra will also be introduced.
Talking about the design, the Tata Sierra will feature a boxy silhouette reminiscent of the old model but with modern touches such as large glass areas, LED headlamps, and roof rails. The interior will offer a triple-screen setup (driver display, infotainment, and passenger screen), Level-2 ADAS, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Harman sound system.
Under the hood, the Sierra will get three engine options – a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (170 hp), and a 2.0-litre diesel engine (170 hp, 350 Nm). The expected price range is ₹20–25 lakh (ex-showroom). The Sierra will challenge the Creta with its retro-modern appeal and electric variant, especially appealing to buyers looking for sustainable driving options.
New Gen Kia Seltos
Next up is the New Generation Kia Seltos, which has always been one of Creta’s biggest rivals. The current model is already among the top three in its segment, but the upcoming 2026 Seltos will make it even stronger. The global debut is expected in January 2026, followed by an India launch around February–March.
In terms of design, it will follow Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, featuring slim vertical LED DRLs, a larger grille, redesigned bumpers, and connected taillamps.
Inside, the SUV will offer a redesigned dashboard, new upholstery, dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless charging, and Level-2 ADAS features. The existing engine options will continue — 1.5-litre petrol (115 hp), 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160 hp), and 1.5-litre diesel (116 hp) — but a hybrid version is expected in 2027, which will electrify the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit.
It will also get a multi-link rear suspension for improved ride comfort. The price range is expected to be between ₹12–21 lakh. The Seltos will challenge the Creta with its premium feel, connected technology (Alexa integration), and future-ready hybrid setup. Kia is also expected to focus on improving safety, as the current model needs better crash-test ratings. This SUV will not only rival the Creta but also the Tata Sierra, especially among urban buyers.
2026 Renault Duster
The third and final SUV is the New Renault Duster, the car that created the compact SUV segment in India back in 2012. After a gap of four years, it is making a grand comeback in 2026. The launch is expected by March 2026, with production starting in September 2025 at Renault’s Chennai plant.
The Duster’s design will feature a rugged look, V-shaped taillamps, a notched spoiler, and a boxy stance. The India-specific version is expected to get vertical LED taillamps and new alloy wheels.
Source:https://hindi.drivespark.com/four-wheelers/2025/upcoming-suvs-2026-tata-sierra-kia-seltos-renault-duster-vs-hyundai-creta-037195.html
By CarVaidya
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