10 Compact SUVs Set to Launch in India Between 2026 and 2028

The Indian compact SUV segment is set for a major expansion between 2026 and 2028, with several new launches and updates expected across petrol, hybrid, CNG, and electric powertrains. As one of the most competitive categories in the country, compact SUVs continue to attract strong interest from automakers looking to tap into high-volume demand and evolving customer preferences. The next few years are likely to bring a fresh mix of mainstream, premium, and value-focused models.

Honda is preparing to enter the sub-4-metre SUV space in India with a new model expected in early 2028. The SUV is likely to be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine, possibly paired with hybrid technology, and may be based on the latest Amaze platform. This would mark Honda’s long-awaited entry into a segment where it has not yet had a presence.

Hyundai is also developing a compact electric SUV, expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027. Targeting mainstream EV buyers, the model is likely to offer around 400 km of real-world range, making it a strong candidate in the affordable electric SUV space.

Tata Motors is expected to introduce the next-generation Nexon in late 2027. The updated SUV could feature a longer wheelbase, a fully redesigned body, and a broader powertrain lineup that includes turbo petrol, iCNG, and pure electric variants. This would allow the Nexon to continue as one of the most versatile offerings in the segment.

Kia’s next-generation Sonet is also likely to arrive by late 2027. The model is expected to move to a new platform with larger dimensions, along with refreshed styling, upgraded interiors, and more modern features. These changes should help Kia keep the Sonet competitive in a fast-moving market.

Renault is preparing to enter the compact SUV category with the Bridger, expected in mid-2027. One of its key highlights will be 48V mild hybrid technology, which could bring electrified powertrains to a more accessible price band.

Volkswagen’s Tera is also expected in mid-2027. Positioned toward the premium side of the segment, it will likely use the MQB A0 IN architecture and a 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine.

Mahindra’s Vision S is expected in early 2027 and may arrive with the NU IQ platform. It is likely to feature 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines, with upright SUV styling inspired by the Scorpio N.

Maruti Suzuki’s Brezza facelift is expected soon and may bring factory-fitted CNG with an underbody tank and a six-speed manual gearbox, improving practicality and usability.

Kia is also planning a Syros EV for the compact SUV space, while VinFast’s VF 3 will target budget-conscious EV buyers with an 18.6 kWh battery pack and a compact footprint.