India’s SUV market is gearing up for a busy October, with the festive season bringing a lineup of new and updated models from major automakers. Buyers planning to purchase an SUV this year will have four key models to watch: the Honda Elevate Facelift, Renault Duster Hybrid, Mahindra’s upcoming SUV and Hyundai Bayon.
Honda Elevate Facelift – Launching October 6: The updated Elevate is scheduled to launch on October 6, with bookings already open at ₹21,000. The facelift is expected to feature a redesigned grille, horizontal LED DRLs, a repositioned Honda logo, connected LED tail-lamps and new cabin features such as a 360-degree camera, ventilated electric seats, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. The existing 1.5-litre petrol engine is expected to continue, producing around 119 bhp and 145 Nm, paired with manual and CVT options.
Renault Duster Hybrid – October 17: Renault is preparing to introduce the hybrid version of the new Duster on October 17. It is expected to use a 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with Renault’s E-Tech Strong Hybrid system featuring two electric motors. The setup is rated at 160 bhp and 172 Nm and uses a 1.4 kWh battery. Renault says the SUV can potentially operate in EV mode for around 80% of city driving, positioning it against hybrid versions of the Grand Vitara, Victoris and Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Mahindra’s New SUV – Expected October Debut: Mahindra could also unveil a new SUV around October 15, although the company has not yet officially confirmed the model. One possibility is the XUV 3XO CNG, which could become Mahindra’s first factory-fitted CNG passenger SUV. If launched, it would compete with the Tata Nexon CNG and Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG.
Hyundai Bayon – New SUV Between Venue and Creta: Hyundai’s Bayon is another major upcoming model, with bookings reportedly open at ₹11,000 and its global premiere scheduled for October 12. Measuring around 4.2 metres, the SUV is expected to sit between the Venue and Creta. Expected highlights include H-Edge LED DRLs, split LED headlamps, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, connected-car features and Hyundai’s generative AI voice assistant.
