January 2026 is set to be a pivotal month for India's automotive industry, with manufacturers launching over 10 new vehicles across SUVs, electric vehicles, and motorcycles. Major brands including Kia, Mahindra, Renault, Tata Motors, and Maruti Suzuki are preparing to unveil significant updates and new models to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Major SUV Launches

Second-Generation Kia Seltos

Kia will introduce the completely redesigned second-generation Seltos SUV on January 2, 2026. The revamped midsize SUV features multiple engine options, advanced connectivity systems, enhanced safety features, and a bolder design with larger dimensions. Bookings are currently open, with deliveries expected to commence shortly after the launch.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Scheduled for January 5, 2026, the Mahindra XUV 7XO represents a technologically advanced iteration of the popular XUV700. Key upgrades include:

Škoda Kushaq Facelift and Renault Duster

Škoda plans to launch the refreshed Kushaq in mid-January 2026, featuring updated styling, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and Level-2 ADAS. The highly anticipated new Renault Duster will debut on January 26, showcasing squared wheel arches, muscular cladding, Y-shaped LED lighting, and generous ground clearance with a rugged-themed interior.

Electric and Petrol Variants

Tata Harrier and Safari Petrol Options

Tata Motors will introduce petrol variants for its flagship SUVs in the first week of January 2026. The pricing structure is expected to be:

Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara

Maruti Suzuki's inaugural electric SUV, the e-Vitara, will launch in late January 2026. Built on a dedicated EV platform, it offers two battery options, a claimed range of approximately 543 km, ALLGRIP-e all-wheel-drive technology, and Level-2 ADAS features.

Motorcycle Segment Expansion

Royal Enfield Bullet 650

The iconic Bullet 650 will launch in early January 2026, combining classic design with modern performance. Powered by a 648cc parallel-twin engine, it features dual-channel ABS, LED "tiger-eye" headlights, and the distinctive Bullet silhouette.

Adventure Motorcycles

The adventure motorcycle segment will see significant additions:

Market Diversification

Nissan will re-enter the family MPV segment with the Gravite in January 2026. Based on the CMF-A+ platform, this 7-seater vehicle offers modular seating and value-driven practicality, targeting competition with compact MPVs like the Triber and Ertiga.

The extensive January 2026 launch lineup demonstrates the industry's commitment to offering diverse mobility solutions across price segments, from affordable family vehicles to premium adventure motorcycles, while embracing both traditional powertrains and electric technology.

Indian information technology companies are strategically pivoting from traditional services to artificial intelligence-driven platforms, fundamentally changing how they engage with clients and deliver value. According to industry experts, this transformation goes beyond cost efficiencies, with new AI deals signed by Indian IT firms creating deeper client relevance and opening new revenue streams.

Strategic Transformation Beyond Cost Efficiency

Prashanth Kaddi, Partner at Deloitte India, acknowledges that despite the industry's AI pivot, a significant gap persists between AI's promise and what companies can actually realize. Speaking exclusively to NDTV Profit on December 30, Kaddi emphasized that bridging this gap represents a journey that every firm is helping its clients navigate.

The transformation involves multiple strategic approaches beyond simply acquiring AI companies. Indian IT firms are pursuing complementary acquisitions, particularly in services around ERP and CRM systems, while simultaneously focusing on organic growth initiatives.

Multi-Pronged Acquisition Strategy

Kaddi outlined the comprehensive approach Indian IT companies are adopting:

• Complementary acquisitions in specialized service areas
• Organic growth in AI capabilities
• Strategic coherence across client offerings
• Global AI services acquisitions that bring both client bases and solution capabilities

"Each of these strategies has to be a coherent set to make sense of that particular client or set of offerings," Kaddi explained. He noted that many acquisitions target AI services firms globally, allowing Indian companies to acquire established client relationships alongside potential AI solutions for existing customer bases.

Major AI Deals Shape 2025 Landscape

The industry's AI transformation gained significant momentum in 2025, with several major deals highlighting the trend:

Coforge's acquisition of US-based artificial intelligence company Encora stands out as a landmark transaction, valued at $2.35 billion (approximately ₹21,138 crore). The deal structure involves share swap arrangements and equity sales to institutional investors, demonstrating the scale of investment flowing into AI capabilities.

Optimistic Outlook for 2026

Despite acknowledging implementation challenges, Kaddi remains optimistic about Indian IT companies signing more AI deals in 2026. He expects that strategic acquisitions will generate valuable AI talent, creating a positive cycle of capability building and market expansion.

The expert cautioned that how these AI processes will be embedded—both in terms of service offerings and client adoption capacity—remains to be seen in upcoming quarters. This measured approach reflects the industry's recognition that successful AI integration requires careful planning and execution.

Industry Transformation Continues

The pivot toward AI platforms represents a fundamental shift in how Indian IT companies position themselves in the global market. Rather than competing primarily on cost advantages, firms are building sophisticated AI capabilities that create deeper client partnerships and sustainable competitive advantages. This transformation positions Indian IT companies to capture greater value from the ongoing digital revolution while helping clients navigate their own AI adoption journeys.