From budget SUVs to performance icons, here’s what’s hitting the roads
The festive season has always been the busiest time for India’s auto market, and October 2025 is no exception. With the rollout of GST 2.0 leading to lower car prices, customer interest is surging, showrooms are seeing higher footfalls, and carmakers are lining up exciting launches to cash in on the festive buzz. From volume sellers to premium performance machines, this month promises something for everyone.
Mahindra Updates Lead the Charge
Mahindra has already kicked things off with the Thar 3-door facelift, priced from ₹9.99 lakh. The update brings a more premium cabin with better materials and a larger infotainment screen, while retaining the same petrol and diesel engine options. Despite the arrival of the larger Thar Roxx, the three-door Thar continues to be a strong seller.
Coming up next are the Bolero and Bolero Neo facelifts on October 6. Both models will get cosmetic upgrades, minor cabin tweaks, and suspension retuning. The 1.5-litre diesel engine continues to power these rural and semi-urban favourites.
Citroën, Nissan and More Step In
Citroën recently launched the Aircross X at an introductory ₹8.29 lakh. Offered in both 5- and 7-seat layouts, it boasts premium features like ventilated seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment unit, ambient lighting, and the CARA voice assistant that works in 52 languages. Safety is well covered with six airbags and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for the 5-seater version.
On October 7, Nissan will reveal the design of its all-new C-segment SUV, built on the CMF-B platform. It will rival hot-sellers like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara, making this debut crucial for Nissan’s India comeback.
Performance Icons Return
October also has treats for enthusiasts. The Mini Countryman JCW All4 launches on October 14, packing 300hp from its 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, sprinting 0-100kph in 5.4 seconds.
Just three days later, on October 17, Skoda will reintroduce the Octavia RS in a limited run of 100 units. With 261hp, a 7-speed DSG, and sharp driving dynamics, it promises to be a collector’s delight.
As Diwali nears, India’s roads are set to get busier and brighter with fresh new wheels, catering to both everyday buyers and hardcore enthusiasts.
