10 Upcoming Compact SUVs In India From Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, Mahindra, Kia & Volkswagen – ICE, EVs & Hybrids
The compact SUV segment is easily the most competitive battleground in India’s car market. Over the next 2–3 years, almost every major brand — Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata, Mahindra, Kia, and Volkswagen — will bring in new models with a mix of ICE, hybrid, and electric powertrains. With growing demand for SUVs offering style, features, and efficiency, here’s everything you need to know about the 10 upcoming compact SUVs in India.
Tata Punch Facelift & Next-Gen Nexon
Tata Motors is set to refresh its most successful entry-level SUV — the Punch. The facelift, codenamed Garud, has already been spotted testing on Indian roads and will bring updated styling inspired by the Punch EV along with feature upgrades. Alongside, Tata is also preparing the third-gen Nexon, expected around 2027, which will sit on a heavily reworked X1 platform with both ICE and EV options.
Hyundai Compact EV
Hyundai is working on its first Made-in-India compact electric SUV, expected in 2026. Positioned below the Creta EV, this SUV will directly compete with the Tata Punch EV and Nexon EV. It is likely to come with two battery options and styling cues from the global Hyundai Inster. Expect pricing to be aggressive as Hyundai aims for mass adoption in the compact EV space.
Tata Scarlet
Tata’s SUV lineup is expanding further with a brand-new nameplate — the Scarlet. Expected to launch in 2026, it will sit between the Punch and Nexon while borrowing design inspiration from the Curvv SUV. Engine options are expected to be shared with the Nexon (1.2L turbo petrol and EV versions). Scarlet could become Tata’s volume driver in the compact SUV space.
Kia Syros EV
Kia is preparing to electrify its compact SUV portfolio with the Syros EV. Likely to launch by 2026, it will offer two battery pack options with a range exceeding 400 km per charge. The Syros EV will share most of its features and design with the ICE-powered Syros but will also include EV-specific styling touches.
Maruti Suzuki Micro SUV
India’s largest carmaker is not sitting out. Maruti Suzuki is reportedly developing a micro SUV positioned below the Brezza to take on the Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter. The biggest highlight will be Maruti’s in-house developed strong hybrid technology, which could give it a clear edge in efficiency and running costs. However, this SUV is still at least 2 years away from launch.
Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, Vision X & Vision S
Mahindra’s electrification roadmap is ambitious, with multiple compact SUVs under development. The XUV 3XO EV, derived from the recently launched XUV 3XO, is expected in 2026 as a smaller sibling to the XUV400. Alongside, Mahindra will also bring in the Vision X compact crossover and the Vision S, a baby Scorpio SUV with rugged styling. All of these will sit on Mahindra’s NU_IQ platform, which is also future-ready for EVs.
Volkswagen Terra
Volkswagen is preparing a new compact SUV codenamed Terra as one of the best upcoming compact SUVs in India, which will be based on the Skoda Kylaq. Built on the highly localised MQ A0 IN platform, the VW Terra will target the premium end of the compact SUV market. Power will come from the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. Expect VW to load it with safety and tech features to appeal to urban buyers.
Conclusion
The next three years will transform the compact SUV segment in India. From upcoming compact SUVs in India Like Tata Punch Facelift and Hyundai Compact EV to Mahindra’s Vision SUVs and Volkswagen Terra, buyers will have a wide choice of ICE, hybrid, and electric SUVs across price points. With demand for compact SUVs at an all-time high, these launches could shape the future of India’s most competitive car segment.
Also Read –Upcoming Maruti Suzuki Electric & Hybrid SUVs 2025–2027: Exciting 4 New Models Revealed
