Hybrid Engine: Midsize SUVs are a top favorite in India, with space, comfort and road presence coming at affordable prices. Now, these SUVs will also become more fuel-efficient and green. Top car manufacturers are gearing up to introduce strong hybrid variants of their top-selling midsize models, escalating the battle further in the coming months.
Kia Seltos
Kia is ready to launch a hybrid version of its new-gen Seltos in India. Scheduled to land in the first half of 2026, the revised SUV not only promises a new design but also the brand’s hybrid arrival in the Indian market. It will be launched with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine combined with a strong hybrid system. This configuration will increase mileage by a considerable margin over the regular petrol variant. The hybrid powertrain, though, might come only with higher-end variants.
Honda Elevate
Honda introduced the Elevate in India in 2023 powered by a 1.5-liter petrol motor. The company now plans to introduce a hybrid variant as part of expanding the range. This hybrid model is scheduled to launch in the latter half of 2026 and may employ the same 1.5-litre petrol motor with Atkinson cycle hybrid technology that now drives the Honda City Hybrid. Although the official specifications have not been announced, the step is intended to increase efficiency and provide customers with a green option.
Hyundai Creta
Hyundai will launch the hybrid version of its next-generation Creta in 2027. The model will be the company’s first capable hybrid SUV in India. The hybrid Creta will be launch with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery pack. Sources indicate that Hyundai could drop the diesel variant altogether as it would be too costly to upgrade it to BS7 standards. With this move, Hyundai aims to achieve a balance of performance and improved fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions.
Mahindra XEV 9e Hybrid
Mahindra is developing a hybrid version of its future XEV 9e electric SUV. This version will be driven by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor. The configuration will enable the motor and engine to operate together or separately, providing excellent fuel efficiency.
Based on Mahindra’s INGLO platform, this SUV will have design modifications to support the new hybrid system. While the company hasn’t confirmed the launch date, the XEV 9e Hybrid is likely to arrive in the second half of 2027.
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