India’s Top 10 Best-Selling SUVs for Q1 FY2026: Hyundai Creta Overtakes Maruti Brezza

Find out which SUVs sold the best in India in the first quarter of FY2026, with the Hyundai Creta at the top. Examine sales data, market trends, feature highlights, and professional guidance on what to look for before making your next SUV purchase.

The utility vehicle (UV) segment of India recorded a slight 3.8% YoY increase in wholesale sales from April to June 2025 (Q1 FY2026), totaling 670,256 units. However, SUVs took center stage: the Hyundai Creta, which sold 47,662 units, barely beat the Maruti Brezza by 618 units. This close finish highlights the fierce rivalry between small and midsize SUVs, where brand trust, powertrain diversity, and cabin technology are crucial factors.

Ranking of the Top 10 Best-Selling SUVs in Q1 of FY2026

1. Sales and Growth of the Hyundai Creta: 47,662 units (+3% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: Segment-leading cabin technology (dual 10.25-inch screens, panoramic sunroof, and ADAS on the upcoming EV), three engine options (1.5-liter NA gasoline, turbo-GDi, and diesel), and manual, IVT, or DCT gearboxes are all available. Hyundai is more appealing due to its extensive service network and high resale value.
• Price Range: ₹11.11 L to 20.64 L

2. Maruti Suzuki Brezza Growth & Sales: 47,044 units (+6% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: Proven 1.5‑liter K‑Series gasoline with factory‑fitted CNG, manual, and automatic options; contemporary SmartPlay Studio 3.0 infotainment; and Maruti’s unparalleled nationwide service coverage. Cost-conscious consumers are drawn to its value positioning and effective drivetrains.
• Price Range: ₹8.69 L to 14.14 L

3. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Sales and Growth: 46,071 units (+6% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: Because of its SUV-inspired design, the Ertiga frequently ranks as a UV even though it is an MPV. The 1.5-liter mild hybrid gasoline engine offers exceptional fuel efficiency, and its versatile seven-seat configuration with a sliding second row makes it a great option for families.
• Price Range: ₹8.97 L to 13.31 L

4. Sales and Growth of Mahindra Scorpio N & Classic: 42,675 units (+5% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: With its turbo-diesel and turbo-petrol engines, terrain-response modes, and ADAS-level safety, the Scorpio N updates the iconic ladder-frame SUV. With its tough simplicity, the Classic still appeals to fleet and rural consumers.
• Price Range: ₹9.99–23.24

5. Tata Nexon Growth & Sales: 40,155 units (+16% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: Tata’s compact SUV champion has a modern, sculpted design, multiple powertrain options (petrol, diesel, CNG, and EV), and a full 5‑star GNCAP rating. It has an advantage over tech-savvy buyers thanks to its safety technology and iRA connected-car suite.
• Price Range: ₹8.19 L to 18.59 L

6. Sales and Growth of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx: 37,744 units (+3% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: The Fronx, which is available through Nexa showrooms, combines a 1.0 L Boosterjet turbo engine with a high‑end cabin that includes paddle shifters (DCT) and dual HD screens. Younger consumers looking for performance and custom styling are its target market.
• Price Range: ₹8.19 L to 12.45 L

7. Tata Punch Growth & Sales: 36,075 units (–36% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: With its elevated stance, five‑star safety rating, and small size—perfect for driving in cities—the Punch invented the “micro‑SUV” concept. It needs a makeover to combat the fierce new competition, as evidenced by its decline in sales.
• Price Range: ₹6.59 L to 10.80 L

8. Mahindra Thar Growth & Sales: 30,634 Units (+77% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: True off‑road capability, convertible top options, and lifestyle SUV appeal are all combined in the redesigned Thar. Its explosive growth among adventure seekers has been fueled by word‑of‑mouth and social‑media buzz.
• Price Range: ₹10.50 L to 15.50 L

9. Mahindra Bolero Growth & Sales: 24,800 Units (–1% YoY)

• The Reason It Works: Thanks to its straightforward ladder‑frame design, robust diesel engine, and low maintenance requirements, the enduring Bolero remains a no‑nonsense rural workhorse.
• Price Range: ₹7.55 L to 10.00 L

10. Mahindra XUV 3XO Growth & Sales: 22,609 units (launch)

• The Reason It Works: With its dual curved screens, Level 1 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, and aggressive pricing, Mahindra’s newest model, the XUV 3XO, makes high‑end technology affordable in a small package.
• Price Range: ₹6.99 L to 12.49 L

Things to Think About Before Buying Your Next SUV

• Budget and Operating Expenses:
  • On‑road price vs. ex‑showroom price: insurance, registration, and accessories included.
  • Compare the stated and actual fuel‑economy figures for petrol, diesel, CNG or EV.
  • Resale value: Generally speaking, brands like Hyundai and Maruti hold their value better.
• Use and Space Requirements:
  • Ground clearance, ride comfort, and footprint matter in urban vs. rural areas.
  • Seating/Cargo: MPVs like Ertiga for families; compact SUVs like Punch or Fronx for couples.
• Performance & Powertrain:
  • Fuel type: EV for city (if chargers available), diesel for torque/highway, petrol/CNG for affordability.
  • Transmission: manual, AMT, DCT, or torque‑converter automatic based on your driving style.
• Safety & Post‑purchase:
  • Aim for models with a 4‑ or 5‑star GNCAP rating.
  • Dealer network: Maruti and Hyundai lead nationwide; Tata and Mahindra networks are expanding.
• Comfort & Features:
  • Tech stack: ADAS levels, connectivity, infotainment.
  • Amenities: sunroof, climate control, adjustable seats, premium audio.
• Proofing for the Future:
  • Regulations: BS‑VI+ emission standards and safety requirements (ESC, side airbags).
  • Electrification roadmap: take into account hybrid or EV options if you plan to keep the vehicle long term.

Further changes in SUV rankings are anticipated in Q2 FY2026 due to upcoming EV rollouts and new facelifts. However, as the results of this quarter demonstrate, the secret to SUV dominance in India continues to be a well‑rounded package that combines performance, features, and after‑sales guarantees.

References
(Original sales data and model specifications as per Autocar India and industry reports.)