Hyundai plans multiple new launches in 2026 – Verna facelift and updated Exeter spotted testing together
Hyundai Motor India is preparing to strengthen its lineup with several new launches by 2026. Of these, the Verna facelift and Exeter facelift are expected to arrive first, probably later this month. Now both have been seen testing together ahead of their respective launches. let’s take a closer look.
Hyundai Verna Facelift – Expected Design and Feature Updates
Hyundai Verna remains one of the strongest contenders in its segment, competing with rivals like Honda City, Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus. The spy shots reveal that the Verna facelift may get a revised front fascia that includes updated LED DRLs, a refreshed grille and subtle bumper revisions. Minor cosmetic changes like updated alloy wheel design and revised rear diffuser may also be part of the update.
Most of the changes seem to be concentrated inside the cabin. The updated Verna is expected to feature a refreshed dashboard layout with a dual-screen setup consisting of a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Other expected features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting, a new three-spoke steering wheel with quad dot Hyundai logo, electric sunroof and electrically adjustable driver seat.
The 2026 Verna facelift is expected to retain the existing engine lineup. This includes a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 115 hp and a more powerful 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine producing 160 hp. Transmission options are likely to continue with a 6-speed manual and CVT for the naturally aspirated engine, while the turbo variant will offer a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT gearbox. Hyundai may also explore the possibility of introducing a hybrid option to better compete with the Honda City Hybrid.
2026 Hyundai Exeter facelift – focus on cabin technology
The Exeter has been a strong performer for Hyundai since its launch in July 2023 and recently crossed the 2 lakh sales mark in just 30 months. With the upcoming update, Hyundai is focusing more on improving the cabin experience rather than making major changes to the exterior design.
Exterior revisions are expected to remain subtle and may include a refreshed grille, slightly redesigned bumpers, updated lighting elements and new alloy wheel designs. Inside the cabin, the Exeter facelift may get a larger infotainment display with an updated digital instrument cluster. Reports also suggest that the vehicle may run on Android Automotive OS, potentially making it one of the first mass-market cars in India to feature Google’s integrated in-car software ecosystem.
Under the hood, the Exeter facelift is expected to retain the existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 83 hp and 113.8 Nm of torque. Transmission options will likely remain unchanged with 5-speed manual and Smart Auto AMT options. Hyundai will also continue to offer the Petrol + CNG bi-fuel version that produces 69 hp and 95.2 Nm, paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
