Diwali = New Car Season
Diwali has always been a big time for car launches in India. Sales go up during the festival. People want something new, sparkling, and proud to drive home. So many carmakers plan their launches just before or around Diwali. This year too, several brands have timed major debuts for October. From rugged SUVs to sporty sedans, buyers have exciting options ahead. Among the names making noise are Mahindra, Mini, and Skoda. Let us look at five new models launching next month.
Mahindra Thar Facelift – Launch Date: October 3, 2025
The cult‑favourite Mahindra Thar will get a facelift and is set to launch on October 2, 2025. The changes will be mild but meaningful. The rugged shape remains. But the 4×2 RWD variant will get alloy wheels. A rear camera will be added (mounted in the spare wheel), along with a rear wiper and defogger. Inside, the steering wheel will get the twin‑peaks Mahindra logo. Mechanically, the Thar is expected to keep the same petrol and diesel engines. But the small upgrades, plus new features, aim to freshen up the appeal. Many offroad lovers will watch this one closely.
Also Read: Mahindra Thar Roxx Owner, Which Had Mishap in Showroom, Offers Bizarre Explanation
Mahindra Bolero Facelift — Launch Date: October 6, 2025
Just three days later, on October 6, 2025, Mahindra is launching the Bolero facelift. The boxy, tough design remains, but the exterior will see new touches. A new colour option, revised soft parts, and updated wheels are expected. Inside, the infotainment system could see an upgrade. The cabin is even likely to get some new features and changes. The engine is likely to stay the same 1.5L diesel, known for its reliability and fuel economy. This facelift will be more about refining than reinventing.
Also Read: Mahindra Vision S Might be Next-Gen Bolero Neo or Thar Sports
Mahindra Bolero Neo Facelift – Launch Date: October 6, 2025
Launched on the same day as the Bolero facelift, the Bolero Neo facelift will also see a similar set of updates. Like the OG Bolero, the Neo will likely get some new features and changes made based on the customer feedback. Even the soft parts, particularly at the front facade, are likely to be upgraded. Under the hood, the 1.5L turbo‑diesel engine will be retained. Transmission options will include a manual and AMT (automated manual).
Also Read: 2025 Mahindra Bolero Neo Facelift Spied On Its Way To Dealerships
Mini Countryman JCW – Launch Date: October 14, 2025
The Mini Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW) is a performance version of the Countryman, slated for launch on October 14, 2025. It is expected to sport a 2.0‑litre turbo petrol engine producing about 300 hp. The 0-100 km/h time is estimated at 5.4 seconds. The exterior will look sportier: blacked‑out grille, large air intakes, red brake calipers. Inside, expect racing touches – sport seats, red accents, performance mode systems. This will be one of the most exciting premium cars for enthusiasts this Diwali season.
Skoda Octavia RS – Launch Date: October 17, 2025
The Skoda Octavia is set to return to India, and this time in the bonkers RS guise! It will be powered by a 2.0‑litre turbo petrol engine producing ~265 hp. Performance will be strong with a 0 to 100 km/h run in 6.4 seconds. It will wear sporty design cues: LED headlights, rear diffuser, and aggressive styling. Inside, features like a 13‑inch screen, adaptive cruise control, and multiple airbags are expected. Bookings open October 6. Deliveries start in November. Skoda is bringing Octavia RS as a limited edition, so only a few units will be made available.
Also Read: India-Bound Skoda Octavia RS Reviewed by Famous Foreign Reviewer
Launch Dates Table
| Car Model | Launch Date | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Mahindra Thar Facelift | October 2, 2025 | Alloy wheels (4×2), rear camera, small refresh |
| Mahindra Bolero Facelift | October 6, 2025 | New bumper, black finish, upgraded infotainment |
| Mahindra Bolero Neo Facelift | October 6, 2025 | 10.25″ screen, refreshed grille, 100 hp diesel |
| Mini Countryman JCW | October 14, 2025 | 300 hp, sporty design, performance SUV |
| Skoda Octavia RS | October 17, 2025 | 265 hp turbo, sporty sedan, limited units |
What We Think
This Diwali season, buyers have much more variety. Mahindra is refreshing its core models – Thar, Bolero, Bolero Neo – making them more modern and relevant. The sporty Mini JCW gives a performance option in SUV form. And the Octavia RS brings back a high‑power sedan choice. For buyers, it means more choice. For carmakers, it means competition will be fierce. Timing launches around Diwali is smart — people already feel generous and festive. If you were waiting for a new car, this Diwali might be your chance to get something exciting.
