Car Launches in October 2026: 10 New Cars in India This Festive Season (Prices, Dates & Features)
The festive season has brought a wave of car launches in October 2026. The Honda Elevate facelift and Skoda Slavia facelift have already arrived with prices starting at ₹11.80 lakh and ₹9.99 lakh respectively, and more launches are lined up from Audi, Volvo, Renault, Toyota, VinFast and Volkswagen before Diwali.
If you are planning to buy a car this Navratri, Dussehra or Diwali, knowing what is new can help you get the latest model or a better deal on the outgoing one. This guide lists the top car launches in October 2026 with confirmed prices, expected launch dates, engines and key features, along with tips for festive car buying.
Table of Contents
Car Launches in October 2026: Quick List
| Car | Launch Date | Price (Ex-Showroom) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift | 5 October | Premium luxury segment | Launched |
| Honda Elevate facelift | 6 October | ₹11.80 lakh – ₹18.40 lakh | Launched |
| Skoda Slavia facelift | 6 October | ₹9.99 lakh – ₹18.84 lakh | Launched |
| Volvo EX90 | 12 October | To be announced | Expected |
| Volvo ES90 | 12 October | To be announced | Expected |
| Toyota Glanza facelift | Mid-October | To be announced | Expected |
| Audi Q3 (new generation) | 16 October | To be announced | Expected |
| Renault Duster Hybrid | 17 October | To be announced | Expected |
| VinFast VF3 | Around 18 October | To be announced | Expected |
| Volkswagen Virtus facelift | Late October | To be announced | Expected |
Launch dates for upcoming models can change, so confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before planning a purchase.
Already Launched in October 2026
1. Honda Elevate Facelift
Honda launched the updated Elevate on 6 October 2026 at ₹11.80 lakh, going up to ₹18.40 lakh for the top ZX+ CVT variant (ex-showroom).
- Engine: 1.5-litre petrol, 119bhp and 145Nm, with 6-speed manual or CVT.
- Design: Revised grille with connected light bars, updated tail lamps and a new Nordic Fest Pearl colour.
- New features: Rear-seat ventilation, eight-way powered driver seat, wireless charging, PM 2.5 filter, 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, rear disc brakes and electric parking brake.
- Rivals: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder.
The Elevate facelift fixes many of the feature gaps of the earlier model, which makes it one of the most important car launches in October 2026 for family buyers.
2. Skoda Slavia Facelift
Skoda launched the Slavia facelift on 6 October 2026 at ₹9.99 lakh, going up to ₹18.84 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Engines: 1.0-litre TSI (115PS, 178Nm) with 6-speed manual or a new 8-speed automatic, and 1.5-litre TSI (150PS, 250Nm) with 7-speed DSG.
- Features: 10.25-inch digital cluster, 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, wireless charger and electric sunroof.
- Segment-first: A rear-seat massage function.
- Rivals: Volkswagen Virtus, Hyundai Verna and Honda City.
3. Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Facelift
The luxury flagship gets a revised front end with a larger illuminated grille, redesigned headlamps and updated technology, powered by a 4.0-litre V8 engine. It targets the top end of the luxury market.
Upcoming Car Launches in October 2026
4. Volvo EX90
Volvo’s flagship three-row electric SUV is expected around 12 October. It offers dual electric motors with about 456hp, a claimed range of over 600km, a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, and Bowers & Wilkins audio. It will be a premium EV aimed at luxury buyers.
5. Volvo ES90
The ES90 is an electric executive sedan with an 800-volt architecture for faster charging and large battery options. It is expected alongside the EX90.
6. Toyota Glanza Facelift
The updated Glanza hatchback is expected with styling and feature updates. It should continue with the 1.2-litre petrol engine, with manual, AMT and CNG options. As the Toyota version of the Baleno, it targets first-time buyers.
7. New-Generation Audi Q3
Audi has opened bookings for the new Q3, expected around 16 October. It uses a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with about 204hp, a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and all-wheel drive. Local assembly should help keep pricing competitive in the entry luxury SUV segment.
8. Renault Duster Hybrid
The new Duster’s strong hybrid version is expected around 17 October. It combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors for about 160hp and a multi-mode automatic gearbox, with an EV mode for city driving. It could be one of the most popular car launches in October 2026 for SUV buyers looking for better mileage.
9. VinFast VF3
Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is expected to launch the compact two-door VF3 around 18 October. It targets the affordable city EV segment, where the MG Comet EV is a key rival.
10. Volkswagen Virtus Facelift
The Virtus facelift is expected later in the month with styling updates and new features such as a 360-degree camera, while retaining the 1.0 and 1.5 TSI engines. It shares many updates with the Skoda Slavia facelift.
Before buying, check safety ratings on the Bharat NCAP website and confirm prices on each manufacturer’s official site, as ex-showroom prices can change after launch.
Which New Car Should You Buy?
Here is a simple guide based on budget and needs:
| Budget / Need | Best Options From October Launches |
|---|---|
| Under ₹10 lakh | Toyota Glanza facelift, VinFast VF3 (EV) |
| ₹10–15 lakh sedan | Skoda Slavia facelift, VW Virtus facelift |
| ₹12–18 lakh SUV | Honda Elevate facelift, Renault Duster Hybrid |
| Entry luxury SUV | New Audi Q3 |
| Premium EV | Volvo EX90, Volvo ES90 |
Festive Car Buying Tips
Buying during the festive season can save you money if you plan well.
- Compare outgoing and new models: Dealers often offer big discounts on pre-facelift stock.
- Check the on-road price: Registration, insurance and accessories add a lot. Ask for an itemised quote.
- Negotiate insurance: You can buy insurance outside the dealer if it is cheaper.
- Book early for new launches: Waiting periods can be long for popular models.
- Check finance offers: Compare dealer finance with bank car loans. Know your CIBIL score before applying.
- Inspect at delivery: Check for scratches, dents and missing accessories before signing.
- Get a FASTag: New cars come with FASTag; consider the FASTag annual pass if you drive on highways often.
Documents You Will Need
– Aadhaar card and PAN card. – Address proof. – Passport-size photos. – Bank statements and salary slips for a car loan. – Driving licence. Keep it on your phone with our guide to download driving licence.
After Buying: Important Steps
– Check that the registration is completed and the RC appears in mParivahan. – Keep insurance and PUC certificates handy. – Learn how to check challan online so you never miss a traffic fine. – Follow the first-service schedule for warranty coverage.
Quick Summary: Car Launches in October 2026
– Honda Elevate facelift launched at ₹11.80 lakh and Skoda Slavia facelift at ₹9.99 lakh. – Upcoming car launches in October 2026 include the Volvo EX90, Audi Q3, Renault Duster Hybrid and Toyota Glanza facelift. – Dates of upcoming launches may change; confirm with dealers. – Festive discounts on outgoing models can offer great value.
Key Terms Explained
– Facelift: A mid-cycle update with design and feature changes. – Ex-showroom price: Price before registration, insurance and other charges. – Strong hybrid: A car that can run on electric power alone at low speeds. – DSG/DCT: Dual-clutch automatic gearbox. – ADAS: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, such as lane keep assist.
Expert Tips
– Take a long test drive on roads you use daily. – Check service centre availability in your town before buying a new brand. – For EVs, confirm home charging feasibility first. – Read the warranty terms carefully, especially for hybrid and EV batteries.
Car Launches in October 2026 by Segment
Hatchbacks
The Toyota Glanza facelift leads the hatchback segment among car launches in October 2026. It is a practical choice for city driving, with CNG options for lower running costs.
Sedans
Sedan buyers get two updated options: the Skoda Slavia facelift, already on sale, and the Volkswagen Virtus facelift, expected later in the month. Both offer turbo-petrol engines, rich features and strong safety credentials.
Mid-Size SUVs
The Honda Elevate facelift and Renault Duster Hybrid are the key SUV car launches in October 2026. The Elevate focuses on comfort and features, while the Duster Hybrid promises better fuel economy with its strong hybrid system.
Luxury and Electric
The new Audi Q3, Volvo EX90 and Volvo ES90 bring fresh options for luxury buyers, while the VinFast VF3 targets budget-conscious urban EV buyers.
Petrol vs Hybrid vs Electric: Which to Choose?
| Powertrain | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | Mixed driving, lower upfront cost | Affordable, easy refuelling | Higher running cost |
| Strong hybrid | City and highway, high mileage | Excellent fuel economy, EV mode in traffic | Higher price than petrol |
| Electric | Daily city use with home charging | Lowest running cost, smooth drive | Charging infrastructure, higher price |
Festive Season Car Buying Calendar
– Navratri: Many buyers book cars for delivery on auspicious days. – Dussehra: One of the busiest delivery days of the year; book early. – Dhanteras and Diwali: Peak demand; dealers may run out of popular variants.
Planning around the car launches in October 2026 and these festival dates helps you secure your preferred colour and variant on time.
Car Launches in October 2026: Final Checklist
1. Shortlist models from the car launches in October 2026 list that fit your budget. 2. Confirm launch dates and prices with official dealers. 3. Take test drives of at least two options. 4. Compare on-road prices and festive offers. 5. Book early, because car launches in October 2026 coincide with peak festive demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cars launched in October 2026?
The Honda Elevate facelift, Skoda Slavia facelift and Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift launched in early October 2026.
What is the price of the Honda Elevate facelift?
It starts at ₹11.80 lakh and goes up to ₹18.40 lakh, ex-showroom.
What is the price of the Skoda Slavia facelift?
It is priced from ₹9.99 lakh to ₹18.84 lakh, ex-showroom.
When will the Renault Duster Hybrid launch?
It is expected around 17 October 2026, but the date may change.
Which is the most affordable new car in October 2026?
Among the October launches, the Toyota Glanza facelift and VinFast VF3 are expected to be the most affordable.
Is it a good time to buy a car?
Yes. The festive season brings launches and discounts, but compare prices and offers carefully.
Conclusion
Car launches in October 2026 offer something for every buyer, from the feature-packed Honda Elevate and Skoda Slavia facelifts to the efficient Renault Duster Hybrid and premium EVs from Volvo. Use this list to shortlist models, take test drives, compare on-road prices and festive offers, and confirm launch dates with your dealer before you buy.
