Key automotive launches policy updates and price changes in India this week

The Indian automotive sector saw significant developments this week. Two brands launched new models, a compact SUV received new trims, and the Delhi government introduced its latest EV policy. Here is a summary of the most important automotive news from the past week.

Key Highlights

• Tata Sierra EV launched with two battery options and an all-wheel drive variant.
• The Delhi EV Policy 2026 offers road tax and registration fee exemptions for electric cars priced up to Rs 30 lakh.
• Kia Seltos receives two new top-end trims with added safety features.
• The Hyundai Creta Electric is introduced with a battery-as-a-service subscription to reduce costs.
• Renault launches the 2026 Kwid facelift with updated styling and new features.

Major Launches and Model Updates

The Tata Sierra EV made its debut as the biggest headline of the week. The new electric SUV closely resembles the internal combustion engine version but features EV-specific design changes. Buyers can choose between two battery options and an all-wheel drive variant. Detailed pricing and specifications are available in our launch coverage.

The third-generation Audi Q3 was seen testing in India without camouflage. This suggests a launch in the coming months. The current generation Q3 has been available internationally since 2025.

Kia India expanded the Seltos lineup by introducing two new top-end trims: GTX (O) and X-Line (O). Both trims offer the 1.5-litre diesel automatic and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines. These variants add new safety features. More details, including prices, are provided in our full report.

Renault India launched the 2026 Kwid, with prices starting at Rs 4.52 lakh (ex-showroom). The facelift brings updated variants, minor styling changes, a new steering wheel, and the latest 2D Renault logos. The hatchback retains its feature-rich profile.

Hyundai introduced the Creta Electric with a battery-as-a-service (BaaS) subscription. This move aims to make the electric SUV more affordable. The BaaS option offers significant cost savings for buyers.

All 50 units of the Skoda Kodiaq RS were sold out before launch. Skoda announced the performance SUV's price earlier this week. Details are available in our launch story.

Policy Changes and Price Revisions

The Delhi NCR Government announced the Delhi EV Policy 2026. The policy grants a 100 percent exemption from road tax and registration fees for electric cars priced up to Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom). Buyers scrapping a Delhi-registered BS-4 or older car can receive a Rs 1 lakh incentive when purchasing a new eligible EV. More information on the policy is available in our detailed article.

Kia India raised prices for several models due to rising operational costs and a depreciating rupee. The Seltos, Sonet, Carens, Clavis, and Carnival MPV are affected. Price increases range from Rs 3,000 to Rs 30,000 (ex-showroom). A detailed breakdown of the new prices can be found in our coverage.

CarBike 360 Says

This week’s auto update shows how quickly India’s market is evolving, with new launches, policy shifts, and price revisions shaping buyer decisions. From fresh product rollouts to cost adjustments across popular brands, the segment remains active and competitive. Readers can expect more changes ahead as automakers continue responding to demand, regulations, and rising input costs.