October auto blitz: Carmakers line up new launches as festive season revs up

While the monsoons have ended, it is raining launches this October. With the onset of the festive season, automakers are lining up a slew of new and updated models across hatchbacks, SUVs, electric vehicles and luxury cars, with prices spanning from around ₹7 lakh to ₹3 crore, ex-showroom. Here are the key launches to watch this month.

Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift — October 5

Mercedes-Benz will begin the month with the facelifted Maybach S-Class on October 5. The luxury sedan gets exterior and cabin updates, along with new personalisation options. The model is expected to be priced around ₹3 crore. Its rivals include the Bentley Flying Spur and BMW 7 Series.

Honda Elevate facelift — October 6

Honda Cars India is expected to launch the updated Elevate on October 6. The SUV is likely to receive styling revisions and feature additions, while the existing 1.5-litre petrol engine is expected to continue. Prices could start at around ₹12 lakh. It will compete with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Maruti Suzuki Victoris.

Volvo EX90 — October 12

Volvo will bring its flagship electric SUV, the EX90, to India on October 12. The three-row EV is expected to feature a 106kWh battery and dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, with a claimed range of up to 625km. Its expected price is around ₹1.2 crore. The EX90 will compete with the BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and Kia EV9.

Toyota Glanza facelift — October 14

Toyota Kirloskar Motor is expected to unveil the Glanza facelift on October 14. The premium hatchback is likely to receive styling and feature updates, along with the new 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine seen in the updated Baleno. The model’s prices are expected to remain in the ₹7-8.5 lakh range. Its key rival will be the Maruti Suzuki Baleno.

Audi Q3 — October 16

Audi India will launch the third-generation Q3 on October 16. The India-spec SUV is expected to get a 204hp 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. Prices are expected to start around ₹48 lakh. The BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA will be its key rivals.

Hyundai Bayon — mid-to-late October

Hyundai’s Bayon is expected to arrive in India towards the middle or end of October, although an exact India launch date has not been confirmed. Positioned between the Venue and Creta, the SUV is expected to be offered with petrol and CNG options, with prices likely to start around ₹10 lakh. It will compete in the crowded compact and mid-size SUV space.