Thinking of buying a new car? Hold on for a moment. 2026 is going to be a surprisingly exciting year for sedan and MPV buyers in India. While SUVs and EVs usually steal the spotlight, the coming year has a lot in store for those who still prefer low-cost sedans and practical people-movers.
This article focuses only on upcoming sedans and MPVs that are set to launch in 2026 or get major updates, based on confirmed information and reliable industry insights.
Honda City Facelift (2026)
The current fifth-generation Honda City, which has been on sale since 2020, is expected to receive a final refresh in 2026, likely in the second half of the year.
What to expect
Exterior changes will be subtle, limited to a redesigned bumper and updated lighting elements. The aim is to align the City’s styling with new global Honda models like the Civic.
Inside, expect minor cabin refreshes, such as new trims and upholstery, while the dashboard layout will remain unchanged. A 360-degree camera is likely to be added to the feature list.
Engine options
Honda will continue with the familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol and 1.5-litre strong hybrid powertrains, with no mechanical changes.
Hyundai Verna Facelift (2026)
One of the biggest rivals of the Honda City, the Hyundai Verna is also set to get a new car. Camouflaged test mules have already been spotted on the road.
Design Updates
The Verna will get a sharper front end inspired by the updated Sonata, which will retain its full-width LED light bar and split headlamp setup. The rear styling will also be updated to match Hyundai’s new, more aggressive design language.
Interior and Technology
Inside the cabin, the Verna is expected to get dual 12.3-inch screens, similar to those found in newer Hyundai models. Over-the-air (OTA) updates will enhance long-term usability.
Powertrain
The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol and 1.5-litre turbo petrol engines will remain unchanged. A robust hybrid version is expected towards the end of the lifecycle.
Skoda Slavia Facelift (2026)
The Skoda Slavia will receive a comprehensive update, making it one of the most interesting mid-size sedans in 2026.
Exterior and interior changes
Styling updates will include revised bumpers, new lighting signatures and fresh alloy wheel designs. Inside, the layout remains familiar, but new color themes and trims will improve the cabin ambience.
Major feature upgrades
- 360-degree camera
- Level 2 ADAS
- Possible rear-seat massage function (segment-first)
- More powerful air conditioning system
Mechanical updates
The Slavia will continue to be offered with 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo petrol engines. However, the 1.0-litre engine will get a new 8-speed torque converter automatic instead of the current 6-speed unit.
The 1.5-litre turbo petrol retains the 7-speed DSG, and a manual gearbox could return, which will please driving enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Virtus Facelift (2026)
The Skoda Slavia’s sibling, the Volkswagen Virtus, will also be updated in 2026, likely around the fourth quarter.
What’s new
Design changes will be subtle, with refreshed trims, upholstery and possibly new paint options. The main focus will be on features.
Feature highlights
- 360-degree camera
- Level 2 ADAS
- Potential rear-seat massage feature
- Improved air conditioning performance
Engine and gearbox
The Virtus will continue to be offered with 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo petrol engines. The 1.0-litre unit gets a new 8-speed automatic, while the 1.5-litre engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Prices are expected to increase slightly with the facelift.
New-Generation Lexus ES (Expected 2026)
The Lexus ES is a big deal for the brand, contributing to around 50% of Lexus sales in India. The next-gen model brings a dramatic change.
Design and Interior
The new ES features bold, angular styling and sharp creases. Inside, it adopts a minimalist cabin design with a large 14-inch touchscreen that controls multiple vehicle functions.
Premium features include
- Mark Levinson sound system
- Electrochromic panoramic glass roof
- Rear reclining seats with ottoman function
- Front seats with Bose mode
- Improved cabin noise insulation
Powertrain
The ES continues to focus on a strong hybrid powertrain. Internationally, it offers:
ES 300h (201 hp)
ES 350h (247 hp)
All variants use an e-CVT gearbox. For the first time, the electric ES will be available globally, although its launch in India is uncertain.
Nissan Gravite MPV (launch in March 2026)
The Nissan Gravite could be a game-changer in the budget MPV segment in India.
Why it matters
It offers three rows of seating for under ₹10 lakh, a rare combination.
Platform and design
Based on the Renault Triber, the Gravite is a sub-4-metre, seven-seater MPV. Nissan will differentiate it with:
New grille
- Redesigned headlights and bumper
- C-shaped design elements
- Bold “Gravite” badging
- Unique alloy wheel design
Interior and features
The cabin will be similar to the Triber but with different trims and colors. Key features include:
- 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Wireless phone charging
- AC vents for the second and third rows
- Flexible seating and multiple fold options remain highlights.
Engine
The Gravite will use a 1.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine (76 hp). A turbo petrol would be exciting, but it’s unlikely.
Launch timeline: March 2026
