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By 2026-27, several popular petrol and diesel SUVs and cars in India are set to transition to hybrid technology. Maruti Suzuki is part of this shift, planning to introduce its in-house developed, affordable strong hybrid powertrain in the Fronx compact crossover and the next-generation Baleno hatchback in 2026. Mahindra’s popular XUV 3XO will also adopt hybrid technology next year. In the mid-size SUV segment, the Honda Elevate hybrid is expected in 2026, followed by the new-generation Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos in 2027. The returning Renault Duster SUV will also be offered with multiple powertrains, including hybrid, petrol, and CNG options.
Mahindra has introduced the NU_IQ platform. Mahindra & Mahindra has a strategic plan for the Indian market. The vehicle manufacturer recently unveiled its new NU_IQ platform, which supports various powertrains, including hybrid. This means future Mahindra SUVs based on the NU-IQ architecture can be offered with hybrid powertrains. The Mahindra XUV 3XO will be the company’s first hybrid, launching in 2026. It is likely to feature a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine paired with a hybrid setup.
Honda’s first hybrid SUV production will begin soon at the company’s Tapukara plant in Alwar, Rajasthan. The market launch is anticipated in the second half of 2026. Honda may utilize the City e:HEV’s Atkinson cycle 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder petrol hybrid powertrain for the Honda Elevate hybrid.
The 2025 Maruti Fronx will mark the debut of the brand’s new in-house developed strong hybrid powertrain based on the 1.2-liter Z-series petrol engine. This same powertrain will also be used in the next-generation Baleno, scheduled to launch in 2026.
The third-generation Renault Duster will be available for sale with a petrol engine in early 2026. Its hybrid variant will follow 6 to 12 months later, potentially in late 2026 or early 2027. Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, popular mid-size SUVs in India, will become hybrids with their new-generation upgrades in 2027. Both SUVs are expected to feature a hybridized 1.5L, 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a strong hybrid setup.
