New Launches: December 2025 Brings Major Car Launches From Maruti, Tata, MG, Kia And Mini – PUNE PULSE
PUNE PULSE
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PUNE PULSE
New Launches: December 2025 Brings Major Car Launches From Maruti, Tata, MG, Kia And Mini
As 2025 draws to a close, December promises an action-packed month for India’s automobile industry with several major launches lined up. Following a busy November that witnessed multiple new model introductions, December continues the momentum with a mix of electric and internal combustion engine vehicles from leading manufacturers.
The year 2025 marked significant growth for the automotive sector, supported by revised GST policies that enabled carmakers to offer attractive discounts and boost sales. The industry witnessed several notable launches including the Mahindra XEV 9S, Tata Sierra, Hyundai Venue second-generation model, and multiple electric vehicle introductions. December adds to this impressive lineup with launches spanning different segments and price points.
Maruti Suzuki e Vitara: Historic EV Debut
Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, launched its first-ever battery electric vehicle on December 2, 2025. The e Vitara marks a historic milestone for the company as it enters the electric mobility space after dominating the conventional car market for decades.
Built on the dedicated Heartect-e platform designed specifically for electric vehicles, the e Vitara features modern styling with Y-shaped LED daytime running lights, angular headlamps, body cladding along the sides, and connected LED tail lights. The SUV measures 4.27 metres in length with a 2.7-metre wheelbase, positioning it in the midsize electric SUV segment.
The electric SUV offers two battery options. The 49 kWh battery pack delivers 143 bhp, while the larger 61 kWh battery produces 173 bhp, with both variants generating 192 Nm of torque. The company claims a range exceeding 500 km on a single charge for the top variant, certified under ARAI testing standards. DC fast charging capability allows the battery to charge from 0 to 80 percent in approximately 50 minutes.
Inside, the e Vitara features a dual-screen setup with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. This marks the first Maruti model with a two-spoke steering wheel design. Premium features include ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and connected car technology. Safety equipment includes seven airbags, Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, 360-degree camera, electronic parking brake, and all-disc brakes. The electric SUV competes directly with the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, and Mahindra BE 6.
Tata Harrier And Safari Petrol Variants
Tata Motors introduced petrol engine options for its flagship SUVs, the Harrier and Safari, on December 9, 2025. This marks the first time these popular models receive petrol powertrains since their original launches with diesel engines.
Both models feature engines developed under Tata’s Hyperion programme. The naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 105 bhp and 145 Nm of torque, while the turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers 158 bhp and 255 Nm of torque. These powertrains debut in the recently launched Tata Sierra and now expand to the Harrier and Safari lineup. Both manual and automatic transmission options accompany the new petrol engines.
The petrol variants provide buyers additional choices alongside the existing diesel versions, potentially priced lower than their diesel counterparts. This strategic move addresses customer demand for petrol-powered SUVs in the premium segment while maintaining the models’ core strengths in design, features, and space.
Next-Generation Kia Seltos Global Unveiling
Kia revealed the highly anticipated next-generation Seltos globally on December 10, 2025. The compact SUV, which has been one of Kia’s most successful models in India, receives comprehensive updates for its third generation.
The new Seltos adopts a bolder design language with a wider grille, Star Map-inspired daytime running lights, square LED headlights, and a more angular profile. Enhanced body cladding around wheel arches and smoother body panels contribute to a stronger road presence. The interior features a dual-screen setup, dual-zone climate control, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and Level 2 Plus Advanced Driver Assistance Systems for enhanced safety.
Expected powertrain options include a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, and a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine. Reports suggest a hybrid powertrain may join the lineup when the model launches in India, expected during the first half of 2026. The global unveiling sets the stage for the Indian market introduction that will pit the new Seltos against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, MG Astor, and Volkswagen Taigun.
Mini Cooper Convertible
The BMW-owned Mini brand opened bookings for the Cooper Convertible ahead of its December launch in India. The three-door hatchback features a retractable soft-top roof that can be operated at speeds up to 30 kmph, combining open-air motoring with premium features.
The Cooper Convertible showcases Mini’s signature circular central touchscreen, physical control buttons, and textured surfaces on the dashboard and door panels. India receives the Cooper S configuration powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 201 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Expected pricing starts around Rs 50 lakh, positioning it as a premium lifestyle vehicle for enthusiasts seeking distinctive open-top motoring.
MG Hector Facelift
MG Motor India plans a mid-December launch for the updated Hector, marking the second significant update since the model’s 2019 introduction. The facelift includes minor exterior styling changes and feature upgrades to keep the midsize SUV competitive.
The existing powertrain options continue, including the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 143 bhp and 250 Nm, and the 2.0-litre diesel engine delivering 170 bhp and 350 Nm. Both manual and automatic transmission choices remain available. The Hector facelift aims to refresh the model’s appeal in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment dominated by the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Market Momentum Continues
December’s launches demonstrate the Indian automotive industry’s sustained momentum throughout 2025. The mix of electric vehicles, petrol variants, and updated models reflects manufacturers’ strategies to address diverse customer preferences and regulatory requirements. With electric vehicle adoption accelerating and conventional powertrains remaining popular, automakers continue offering multiple choices across segments. As 2025 concludes, these December launches set the tone for an equally exciting 2026, with several more models already confirmed for early next year.
