The SUV body style is all set to take center stage, with manufacturers fighting hard to secure space in both compact and midsize segments. As India’s electric vehicle market surges toward a projected 2 million annual sales by 2026, a host of new electric SUVs is expected to roll out from Indian and international brands within the next 12 months. These models promise longer ranges, advanced tech, and competitive pricing to capture eco-conscious buyers. From Maruti Suzuki’s first long-range EV to Mahindra’s off-road beast, here’s a rundown of seven exciting launches poised to redefine urban and adventure driving.
1. Maruti Suzuki e Vitara
Maruti Suzuki is making a bold entry into the EV space with the e Vitara, its first long-range electric SUV. Unveiled in production form at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 and recently showcased in India-spec guise, this midsize EV is built on a dedicated EV architecture for global benchmarking.
The e Vitara offers two battery options: a 49 kWh pack for the base Delta trim and a larger 61 kWh unit for Zeta and Alpha variants, delivering an ARAI-certified range of up to 543 km—enough for a round trip from Delhi to Chandigarh. Power outputs range from 142 bhp (189 Nm torque) in the smaller pack to 172 bhp (up to 300 Nm in 4WD mode, though India gets FWD only). Fast charging supports quick top-ups, backed by Maruti’s network of over 2,000 points across 1,100+ cities.
Inside, expect a clean dashboard with a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Level-2 ADAS features like adaptive cruise control. Safety is a highlight with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, seven airbags, and a 360-degree camera. Priced between ₹17-22.5 lakh (ex-showroom), it will rival the Hyundai Creta EV and Tata Curvv EV. Bookings open soon, with sales starting January 2026—perfect for those eyeing Maruti’s vast service network.
2. Toyota Urban Cruiser BEV
Toyota’s Urban Cruiser BEV is essentially a rebadged sibling to the Maruti e Vitara, leveraging their alliance for a shared Heartect-e platform. Showcased as a concept at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, this compact 5-seater EV marks Toyota’s first India-made electric offering, emphasizing reliability and efficiency.
Expect similar specs: dual battery packs (49 kWh and 61 kWh) for ranges exceeding 550 km (ARAI), with front-wheel drive and power up to 172 bhp. The design features vertically stacked LED DRLs, a blanked-off grille, and an LED light bar, paired with a longer 2,700 mm wheelbase for enhanced interior space over the e Vitara.
The cabin mirrors its Maruti twin with dual screens, ventilated seats, and Toyota’s signature safety suite, including Level-2 ADAS. Priced around ₹18-25 lakh (ex-showroom), it targets the Hyundai Creta Electric and Mahindra BE 6. Production at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant will support exports, with a launch slated for February 2026—ideal for buyers seeking Toyota’s bulletproof build quality in an EV wrapper.
3. Hyundai Compact e-SUV
Hyundai is doubling down on affordable EVs with its India-specific Compact e-SUV, codenamed HE1i and based on the global Inster EV. This sub-4m model, tailored for urban agility, will be manufactured at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur plant with localized Exide batteries, aiming for high localization to keep prices under ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom).The Inster-inspired design includes quirky boxy lines, a high ground clearance for Indian roads, and a sealed front grille. Expect a single-motor setup with a 42-49 kWh battery for 300-350 km range, supporting DC fast charging. Interiors will feature a 10-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Level-2 ADAS like lane-keep assist—rarities in this segment. Positioned below the Creta Electric, it rivals the Tata Punch EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. Launch is eyed for late 2026, with aggressive pricing to boost Hyundai’s EV share amid rising competition.
4. Kia EV (Syros EV)
Kia’s compact EV entrant, the Syros EV, is set to shake up the sub-Rs 15 lakh segment as an affordable, feature-rich electric SUV. Based on the upcoming ICE Syros (launching February 2025), this sub-4m model will slot between the Sonet and Seltos, built on Kia’s K1 platform for mass-market appeal. Anticipate a 42-49 kWh battery with a single rear-motor setup, offering 350-370 km range and quick acceleration. The design boasts a bold tiger-nose grille (sealed for EV), connected LEDs, and rugged cladding. Inside, a digital cockpit with connected tech, ventilated seats, and Level-2 ADAS will elevate it above rivals. Priced from ₹14 lakh (ex-showroom), it challenges the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. With Kia’s two new local EVs by 2025 (including Carens EV), the Syros EV launches early 2026, targeting young urbanites with premium vibes on a budget.
5. Tata Sierra EV
Tata’s revival of the iconic Sierra as an EV blends nostalgia with cutting-edge tech on the Acti.ev+ platform. Following the ICE Sierra’s November 2025 launch, the electric version promises a retro-futuristic design with split LED headlamps, a blanked-off grille, and flush handles. Battery options include 55 kWh and 65 kWh packs for 450-500 km range, with single-motor RWD or dual-motor AWD configs up to 200+ bhp. Built at Sanand, it features a triple-screen setup, panoramic sunroof, JBL audio, and Level-2 ADAS. Safety aligns with Tata’s 5-star pedigree. At ₹20-25 lakh (ex-showroom), it takes on the Mahindra BE 6 and Hyundai Creta Electric. Deliveries start February 2026, appealing to off-road enthusiasts craving the OG Sierra’s spirit with zero emissions.
6. Mahindra XUV 3XO EV
Mahindra’s XUV 3XO EV electrifies its bestseller, replacing the XUV400 with a sub-compact package spied testing in Pune. Retaining the ICE model’s funky twin-pod LEDs and C-shaped taillamps, it adds EV tweaks like a larger air intake and aero wheels. Two batteries (34.5 kWh and 39.4 kWh) promise 375-456 km range, powered by rear motor (up to 150 bhp). The cabin mirrors the 3XO with a 10.25-inch dual-screen setup, panoramic sunroof, and AdrenoX connectivity, plus Level-2 ADAS. Priced ₹15-18 lakh (ex-showroom), it squares off against the Tata Nexon EV and MG Windsor EV. Launch in early 2026 makes it a practical city warrior with Mahindra’s rugged DNA.
7. Mahindra BE Rall-E
For adventure seekers, Mahindra’s BE Rall-E is the off-road star—a rugged variant of the BE 6 with rally-inspired tweaks. Teased ahead of its November 26, 2025, debut at the Scream Electric event, it sports circular projector LEDs, a sculpted bonnet, and all-terrain tires on aero alloys.Sharing the BE 6’s INGLO platform, expect 59/79 kWh batteries for 556-683 km range and dual motors (up to 282 bhp, 380 Nm). Off-road prowess includes higher ground clearance, roof rails (sans concept’s carrier), and modes for sand/snow. Features like AR HUD, Harman Kardon audio, and Level-2 ADAS add luxury.At ₹30-35 lakh (ex-showroom), it rivals the Tata Harrier EV for trails. Sales ramp up in 2026, embodying Mahindra’s “Electric Trailblazer” ethos.
These launches signal a vibrant future for India’s EV SUV market, blending affordability, range, and innovation. With government incentives and expanding charging infra, 2026 could be the tipping point—keep an eye on bookings for early-bird deals.
