If you have a plan for a compact SUV, hold on a little longer as India’s two major OEMs – Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors – are gearing up to launch at least 6 new models in this category. The upcoming range will include facelifts, electric vehicles and hybrid compact SUVs.
Mahindra will soon introduce the updated Thar, which will be followed by the electric and hybrid versions of the XUV 3XO subcompact SUV. Meanwhile, Tata will roll out the updated Punch and Punch EV in October 2025 and a brand-new subcompact SUV – codenamed Tata Scarlet.
Upcoming Mahindra Compact SUVs
| Upcoming Mahindra Compact SUVs | Expected Launch |
| Mahindra Thar Facelift | Late September 2025 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO EV | 2026 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO Hybrid | 2026 |
Upcoming Tata Compact SUVs
| Upcoming Tata Compact SUVs | Expected Launch |
| Tata Punch Facelift | October 2025 |
| Tata Punch EV Facelift | October 2025 |
| Tata Scarlet | H2, 2026 |
- The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift will come with significantly improved styling and interior, inspired by the Thar Roxx. The SUV is likely to feature a larger touchscreen, a new steering, an updated instrument cluster, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and more. Mechanical changes are unlikely.
- The Mahindra XUV 3XO EV has been on test for a while now. The EV is expected to feature a small 35kWh battery along with minor EV-specific updates inside and out.
- Mahindra will enter the hybrid segment with the XUV 3XO in 2026. Codenamed S226, the SUV might come with a 1.2L turbo petrol-hybrid powertrain.
- The updated Tata Punch EV is expected to borrow the Nexon EV’s 45kWh battery pack, offering a claimed ARAI range of 489km.
- Codenamed Tata Scarlet, the upcoming sub-4 metre SUV is expected to have a mini-Sierra-like design with a boxy and upright stance. It might feature Tata’s all-new 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine, which will debut on the Sierra in early 2026.
