India's automotive sector enters 2026 with cautious optimism, bolstered by GST reforms and record exports crossing five million units, as manufacturers align with global standards amid ongoing economic uncertainty.
05 Jan 2026 | 877 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
This edition of Autocar Professional reflects on a year of transition for India’s automotive industry as it steps into 2026 with renewed, though measured, optimism. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, the sector demonstrated resilience, supported by timely policy intervention and a gradual strengthening of domestic and export fundamentals.
This is an Autocar Pro Plus article. Subscribe to continue reading.
This edition of Autocar Professional reflects on a year of transition for India’s automotive industry as it steps into 2026 with renewed, though measured, optimism. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, the sector demonstrated resilience, supported by timely policy intervention and a gradual strengthening of domestic and export fundamentals.
The latest edition highlights how tax rationalisation played a critical role in reviving demand during the latter part of the year. After a subdued first nine months marked by inflationary pressures and cautious consumer sentiment, the rollout of GST 2.0 in October helped restore momentum. Insights from CRISIL offer a closer examination of how these changes reshaped demand patterns, particularly across passenger vehicles and tractors.
This edition also underscores India’s growing stature as a global automotive manufacturing and export hub. Vehicle exports are on track to cross the five-million-unit mark in 2025, with two- and three-wheelers continuing to drive volumes across emerging markets, while passenger vehicle exports gain traction on the back of improved quality, compliance, and engineering standards. Expanding free trade agreements and wider market access are enabling Indian manufacturers to look beyond traditional export destinations.
The magazine further turns its focus to evolving product strategies through in-depth looks at key nameplates such as the Tata Sierra and the Suzuki e Vitara, illustrating how Indian automakers are aligning design, technology, and positioning with global expectations.
As the industry enters 2026, Autocar Professional captures a mood of cautious confidence, acknowledging both recovery and ongoing uncertainty.
Autocar Professional magazine is available through all good newsagents and for download from Magzster.
Order from Amazon - https://amzn.in/d/eIt2LFi
Subscribe - https://subscriptions.haymarketsac.com/product-details/sub/15?
Any queries? Contact: Ganesh ganesh@autocarindia.com