The SUV segment has always been hot in India, but until a few years ago, it cost a minimum of ₹10 lakh to buy a good SUV. The scene has changed! Today, SUVs are available starting at ₹7 lakh, and in 2026, four new models are set to launch under ₹12 lakh. This means they’re both budget-friendly and feature-laden. Let’s explore all these upcoming SUVs.
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Tata Punch Facelift
Tata Punch started the micro-SUV trend in India, but hasn’t seen any major updates since its launch in 2021. Finally, the Punch is set to get a facelift in 2026, drawing a lot of inspiration from its EV sibling.
Spy shots clearly show the Punch facelift will come with a refreshed look. Vertically slatted LED headlamps, connected LED DRLs, connected LED taillamps, and new alloy wheels will make its design more stylish.
The engine setup will remain the same—1.2-litre NA petrol (87bhp, 115Nm), with 5MT & 5AMT options. The CNG option will also continue. Prices are expected to increase by ₹ 15,000 to ₹ 55,000 after the facelift. The Punch will still remain a solid package in its price range.
Hyundai Exter Facelift
Hyundai Exter was meant to be a rival to the Punch, but it failed to garner the full attention of buyers. Now, with a facelift, Hyundai is going to give the Exter a next-level makeover. Its design could be similar to new-gen Hyundai models. Some major changes are also expected in the interior.
Its engine option will remain the same – 1.2-litre NA petrol with manual and AMT gearbox. Surprisingly, this engine-AMT combo of the Exter is considered to be the smoothest in its price segment, so Hyundai did not need to ditch this setup. The current price of the Exter is Rs 6.72 lakh – 11.27 lakh (on-road Mumbai). The price could increase by up to Rs 60,000 after the facelift.
Maruti Fronx Hybrid
The next SUV on the list is not a new model but a powerful upgrade – the Maruti Fronx Hybrid. The Fronx is already a strong seller, and with the hybrid engine, it will become not just a bike, but a mileage monster! The expected hybrid system will be based on the 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z-series petrol engine, with a mileage of around 35kmpl.
Some minor tweaks may be seen in the design, but the biggest addition will be ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Currently, the Fronx is priced between Rs 8.01 lakh – 14.09 lakh. The Hybrid version may be costlier by up to Rs 70,000, but it will be a jackpot for mileage lovers.
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Hyundai Bayon
The most exciting launch on this list will be the Hyundai Bayon, an all-new crossover SUV. It could be a direct competitor to the Franx, and a bold design-wise look is expected. The Bayon is already quite popular globally, and its features list is impressive.
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless charging
- 64-color ambient lighting
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
- Sunroof
- Premium cabin
Its engine options could be quite interesting in India. Hyundai could offer:
- 1.2-liter turbo petrol
- 1.0-liter turbo petrol
- 1.2-liter NA petrol
- Optional CNG setup