India’s auto industry celebrated its biggest annual honors this week, and the spotlight fell on Maruti Suzuki. The company’s latest model, the Victoris, was crowned Indian Car of the Year 2026, beating strong competition from Hyundai Creta Electric, Kia Syros, and Tata Harrier EV. The award recognizes the Victoris as a true all-rounder, combining design, performance, comfort, and affordability in a way that impressed both experts and everyday drivers.
The Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) award is considered the most prestigious recognition in the country’s automotive sector. It is judged by a panel of experts from OVERDRIVE and other leading publications, who test vehicles for real-world performance on Indian roads. The Victoris stood out for its balance of practicality and innovation, offering features that meet the needs of families while also appealing to younger buyers looking for style and technology.
Two-wheelers also had their moment of glory. The TVS Apache RTX was named Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2026, outshining rivals like the Royal Enfield Classic 650 and KTM 390 Adventure. The Apache RTX won praise for its sporty handling, advanced features, and ability to deliver excitement without compromising on everyday usability.
Special category awards highlighted the changing face of mobility in India. The Mahindra XEV 9e was honored as Green Car of the Year, reflecting the growing importance of electric and hybrid vehicles. With its eco-friendly design and strong performance, the XEV 9e shows how Indian manufacturers are stepping up to global sustainability standards. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Golf GTI took home the Premium Car of the Year award, recognized for its blend of luxury, driving dynamics, and advanced technology.
These awards underline a year of rapid progress in the automotive world. Electric vehicles, hybrids, and high-performance bikes are no longer niche products, they are becoming mainstream choices for Indian consumers. The recognition of models like the Victoris and XEV 9e shows that manufacturers are listening to customer demands for efficiency, innovation, and reliability.
For Maruti Suzuki, the victory is especially significant. The company has long been India’s most trusted carmaker, and the Victoris proves it can still set benchmarks in a market that is evolving faster than ever. As the industry moves toward greener and smarter mobility, the 2026 awards highlight how Indian roads are welcoming a new generation of vehicles that combine tradition with technology.
