October is shaping up to be an exciting month for India's automobile market. With the festive season bringing increased interest in new vehicles, several manufacturers are preparing to introduce new SUVs and updated versions of existing models.
For buyers planning to purchase an SUV this festive season, four names are particularly worth watching: the Honda Elevate facelift, Renault Duster Hybrid, a new Mahindra SUV and the Hyundai Bayon.
Honda Elevate Facelift: A Fresh Look for the Popular SUV
The updated Honda Elevate is expected to be one of the first major SUV launches of the month. The facelift is scheduled for October 6, 2026, with bookings reportedly opening at ₹21,000.
Honda has teased several exterior changes, including a redesigned grille, new horizontal LED daytime running lights and a revised front-end design. The Honda badge is expected to move from the grille to the bonnet, while the rear could get a connected LED light bar.
The facelift is also expected to receive several feature upgrades, including a 360-degree camera, ventilated and electrically adjustable seats, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof.
The powertrain is likely to remain largely unchanged, with the existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 119 bhp and 145 Nm. Transmission options are expected to include a 6-speed manual and CVT automatic.
Renault Duster Hybrid: Bringing Strong-Hybrid Technology to the Duster
The Renault Duster is set to receive another powertrain option with the arrival of its hybrid version, reportedly scheduled for October 17.
The SUV is expected to use Renault's E-Tech strong-hybrid system, combining a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with two electric motors. The setup is expected to produce a combined 160 bhp and 172 Nm, with power supplied partly through a 1.4 kWh battery.
One of the biggest highlights is its ability to operate in electric mode for a significant portion of city driving. Renault has indicated that around 80% of urban driving could potentially be covered in EV mode under suitable conditions.
Unlike the hybrid systems used by some rivals, the Duster's setup uses a multi-mode automatic transmission.
The hybrid Duster will enter a segment that already includes strong-hybrid SUVs such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Mahindra's New SUV Could Make a Surprise Entry
Mahindra is also expected to introduce another SUV during October, with October 15 being discussed as a tentative date.
The company has not yet officially revealed all the details, leaving plenty of speculation around the upcoming model. One possibility is a CNG-powered version of the XUV 3XO.
If launched with a factory-fitted CNG system, it could become Mahindra's first CNG passenger SUV and would take on rivals such as the Tata Nexon CNG and Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG.
The expected setup could pair a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
However, until Mahindra officially confirms the model and specifications, these details should be treated as expectations rather than confirmed specifications.
Hyundai Bayon: A New SUV Between Venue and Creta
Hyundai is also preparing to attract attention with the Bayon. The company has reportedly opened bookings for ₹11,000, while its global premiere is scheduled for October 12. The exact Indian launch date is yet to be announced.
At around 4.2 metres long, the Bayon is expected to sit between the Venue and Creta in Hyundai's SUV line-up.
The design could feature H-shaped LED daytime running lights, split LED headlamps, redesigned wheel arches and bridge-style roof rails.
Inside, the SUV is expected to offer a technology-focused cabin with features such as a dual-screen setup, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera and connected-car technology.
The Bayon could use a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with manual and IVT automatic transmission options. A CNG variant is also expected.
Another interesting feature could be Hyundai's generative-AI-powered voice assistant, designed to allow occupants to interact with the vehicle using more natural voice commands.
October Could Be a Big Month for SUV Buyers
From a facelifted family SUV to a strong-hybrid Duster and potentially new CNG options, October could bring considerable variety to India's SUV market.
With manufacturers targeting festive-season buyers, the coming weeks could be particularly interesting for anyone planning to upgrade their car. However, buyers should check the final launch dates, prices, specifications and variant-wise features once the manufacturers make their official announcements.
