Top five upcoming sedans expected in 2026: New Virtus, Slavia and more

India’s sedan segment is set for new activity in 2026, with many manufacturers planning updates and new launches to regain lost ground from SUVs. Facelifts of mid-size models like the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia are expected along with other entries across segments. The upcoming sedan is likely to get design changes, revised interiors, additional safety features and powertrain updates. The renewed pressure comes as some buyers continue to prefer sedans for ride comfort and styling over large SUVs. In this article, let’s take a look at the top five sedans to be launched in 2026. Mercedes-Benz CLA ElectricThe first sedan on the list is the new Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric, which will be launched in the Indian market in April 2026. The new CLA will replace the A-Class sedan and will also replace the EQA and EQB EVs in the brand’s entry-level portfolio. The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is expected to be priced between Rs 55-60 lakh (ex-showroom).

The new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV, like the older models, has a strong focus on aerodynamics and has a low drag coefficient of 0.21. The sedan has a low stance, long wheelbase and short overhangs, giving it balanced proportions. At the front, the model gets a closed grille panel in glossy black with shiny star-pattern elements and a central Mercedes emblem. The slim LED headlamps are connected to a light bar that runs across the fascia. The bumper has been redesigned with functional air inlets to support cooling and airflow.The Mercedes-Benz CLA will be offered in a single CLA 250 Plus variant. It gets an 85 kWh battery pack with a single electric motor, which sends power to the rear wheels and produces 268hp and 335Nm of torque. It also gets a two-speed gearbox and has a claimed range of up to 792 km (WLTP). The new CLA features an 800-volt electrical architecture that supports DC fast charging at speeds of up to 320 kW. Mercedes-Benz claims it can add about 300 km of driving range in about 10 minutes under ideal conditions.skoda slavia facelift The next sedan on the list is the Skoda Slavia facelift. The sedan, which made its debut in 2021, is now due for its first mid-cycle update. Design-wise, it is expected to feature a redesigned fascia with sharper headlamps, a revised grille incorporating a connected light strip similar to the Kushaq facelift, and a new bumper design. Newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels can be found on the sides of the sedan. At the rear, the updates are likely to include a new boot lid, slimmer tail-lamps and other subtle styling enhancements.

Moving inside, changes are expected to be minimal, limited to largely updated upholstery. On the features front, it is likely to get a fully digital instrument cluster, a redesigned steering wheel, ventilated front seats and many additional upgrades. Mechanically, it is expected to continue unchanged, retaining the same set of engine options. Like the Taigun, Volkswagen is expected to introduce a new 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, replacing the earlier 6-speed unit. The second engine is a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo petrol.Volkswagen Virtus Facelift The Volkswagen Virtus was launched in 2022 and is now set to get a mid-cycle facelift. The overall silhouette is expected to remain unchanged, but the Virtus is likely to get a significant design update at the front and rear. The updates are expected to include a revised grille with sleeker headlamps and a redesigned front fascia with a new bumper design. Along the sides, it is expected to get newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels, while the rear is likely to get a redesigned boot lid, slimmer tail-lamps and other subtle styling updates.Moving inside, changes are expected to be minimal, limited to largely updated upholstery. On the features front, it is likely to get a fully digital instrument cluster, a redesigned steering wheel, ventilated front seats and many additional upgrades. Mechanically, it is expected to continue unchanged, retaining the same set of engine options. Like the Taigun, Volkswagen is expected to introduce a new 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, replacing the earlier 6-speed unit. The second engine is a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo petrol.Hyundai Verna Facelift Next on the list is the Hyundai Verna facelift. The current generation model was launched in 2023 and is now due for a mid-cycle update. The sedan was recently spotted testing with heavy camouflage. The overall silhouette remains the same, but covered sections hint at exterior modifications.At the front, the bumper and grille are hidden, suggesting a change to the fascia. The split headlamp setup seems to have been retained, although there are likely minor updates to the LED signature. The bumper seems to feature revised air intakes, and the test car was seen with a new alloy wheel design. At the rear, camouflage on the boot lid and bumper hints at possible styling changes, including updated tail-lamp internals. The connected tail-lamp layout is expected to continue with sharp lighting elements in line with Hyundai’s latest design approach.Inside, the dashboard was partially covered, indicating an update to the trim or layout. While the seats and door pads look unchanged, additional features, new upholstery options and upgrades to the infotainment and security systems may be offered. The facelift is expected to retain the existing petrol engine options including turbo-petrol units with manual and automatic transmissions. No major mechanical changes are expected. The updated model is likely to arrive in Hyundai’s home market before reaching India, where it will continue to compete with the likes of Honda City, Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus.honda city faceliftHonda is expected to update the fifth-generation City in 2026 as the model nears its sixth year in the market. The current version was introduced in 2020 and was redesigned in 2023. It is unclear whether the company will launch a new generation model or introduce another update to the existing version. A generational facelift will typically include modifications to the design, interior, platform and powertrain, while a minor facelift will focus on cosmetic and feature upgrades. Honda is expected to take into account market conditions and regulatory requirements before finalizing its plans. Further details are likely to be revealed closer to 2026.