India’s compact EV segment is heating up, with major automakers like Tata, Hyundai, Maruti, and Kia preparing affordable electric hatchbacks and small SUVs. If you’re planning to buy an EV soon, here are 8 upcoming models worth waiting for:
1. Kia Syros EV (Expected 2026)
- Based on: Kia’s global EV2 concept
- Range: ~350-400 km (expected)
- Rivals: Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400
- Key Feature: Likely to share tech with Kia Carens EV
Why Wait? Kia’s strong aftersales and premium interiors could make it a Nexon EV alternative.
2. Maruti Suzuki eWX (Expected 2026-27)
- Design: Tall-boy hatchback (like Wagon R EV)
- Range: ~250-300 km (city-focused)
- Price: Likely under ₹10 lakh (positioned as most affordable EV)
- Rivals: Tata Tiago EV, Citroen eC3
Best For: Budget buyers wanting Maruti’s reliability in EV form.
3. Tata Punch EV Facelift (Early 2026)
- Updates: Refreshed design, longer range (from current 315 km)
- New Features: Possible V2L (vehicle-to-load) tech
- Rivals: Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV3XO EV
Why It Matters? Punch EV is already a bestseller; facelift will strengthen Tata’s EV dominance.
4. Mahindra XUV3XO EV (Late 2025-26)
- Range: ~350 km (same battery as XUV400)
- Price: ₹12-15 lakh (positioned below XUV400)
- Rivals: Tata Nexon EV, Hyundai Venue EV
Key Advantage: Mahindra’s SUV expertise in a compact EV package.
5. Hyundai i10 EV (Grand i10 Nios Electric) (2026)
- Expected Range: ~250-300 km
- Positioning: Affordable urban EV
- Rivals: Tata Tiago EV, Maruti eWX
Potential Game-Changer: Hyundai’s first mass-market EV in India.
6. Hyundai Inster-Based EV (2026)
- Global Model: Based on Inster EV (sold internationally)
- Range: ~400 km (likely)
- Price: ₹15-18 lakh
- Rivals: Kia Syros EV, Tata Curvv EV
Why Wait? Hyundai’s premium compact EV with global tech.
7. Hyundai Venue EV (2026-27)
- Expected Range: ~350 km
- Competes With: Mahindra XUV3XO EV, Tata Nexon EV
- Key Feature: Likely to retain Venue’s SUV stance
Best For: Those wanting a small electric SUV with Hyundai’s brand value.
8. Nissan A-Segment EV (2026)
- Range: 400+ km (claimed)
- Price: ₹10-13 lakh (aggressive pricing expected)
- Rivals: Tata Punch EV, Maruti eWX
Why It Matters? Nissan’s first mass-market EV for India could shake up the segment.
Comparison: Upcoming Compact EVs
| Model | Expected Launch | Range (km) | Expected Price (₹) | Key Rival |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Syros EV | 2026 | 350-400 | 15-18 lakh | Nexon EV |
| Maruti eWX | 2026-27 | 250-300 | 8-10 lakh | Tiago EV |
| Tata Punch EV Facelift | Early 2026 | 350+ | 10-13 lakh | Nexon EV |
| Mahindra XUV3XO EV | 2025-26 | 350 | 12-15 lakh | Nexon EV |
| Hyundai i10 EV | 2026 | 250-300 | 9-12 lakh | Tiago EV |
| Hyundai Inster EV | 2026 | 400 | 15-18 lakh | Syros EV |
| Hyundai Venue EV | 2026-27 | 350 | 13-16 lakh | XUV3XO EV |
| Nissan A-Segment EV | 2026 | 400+ | 10-13 lakh | Punch EV |
Should You Wait or Buy Now?
✅ Wait if: You want more range, better tech, or new models (2025-26 launches).
❌ Buy now if: You need a car immediately (current Nexon EV, Tiago EV are solid).
Why Compact EVs Are the Future?
✔ Lower prices (under ₹15 lakh)
✔ Better charging infra (govt. push for EVs)
✔ Low running cost (₹1-1.5/km vs ₹6-8/km for petrol)
