The demand for hybrid vehicles is increasing rapidly in the Indian auto market. Recognizing this trend, both sibling companies Hyundai and Kia have started preparing to bring hybrid technology in their popular mid-size SUVs. Hyundai Creta Hybrid and Kia Seltos Hybrid will soon be seen on Indian roads. These models are going to create a stir in the market with better mileage, low carbon emissions and premium features.
With 1.5 liter strong hybrid engine, these vehicles can give mileage of up to 22-25 km per liter in city traffic. Considering the rising petrol and diesel prices, strict emission norms and hybrid incentives of the government, these SUVs can prove to be the perfect choice for young buyers and families. Companies are trying to keep prices affordable by using local components, so that they can compete with vehicles like Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hayrider.
Hyundai Creta Hybrid
Hyundai Creta is one of the most popular mid-size SUVs in the Indian market. Petrol, turbo petrol and diesel engines are available in the current facelift model, but the next generation Creta (codenamed SX3) is scheduled to be launched in late 2026 or early 2027. This new Creta will be built on the K3 platform, which is already used in the new generation model of Kia Seltos.
The hybrid variant will combine a 1.5 liter naturally aspirated petrol engine with two electric motors and a small battery pack. This strong hybrid system can run in electric mode in the city, which will save fuel and reduce engine noise. The estimated price of the hybrid variant can be between Rs 18 to 22 lakh (ex-showroom).
Talking about design, the new Creta will come with a boxy and modern look. Parametric grille, sharp LED headlamps, 18 inch alloy wheels and LED taillights will make it attractive. The interior will have dual 12.3-inch screens, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, wireless charging, level-2 ADAS safety features like blind spot monitoring, 360 degree camera and 6 airbags as standard.
Ride and handling will be balanced as per Indian roads. The company claims that the hybrid system will give good performance even on the highway and an overall claimed mileage of 25 km/litre can be achieved. Hyundai has already announced that 8 hybrid models will be launched in India by 2030, of which Creta Hybrid is the main one.
Kia Seltos Hybrid
Kia Seltos also gives tough competition to Creta in the market. The new Seltos has been launched in December 2025, but its hybrid variant will arrive in late 2026 or the first half of 2027. Kia India Senior Vice President Atul Sood has confirmed that the Seltos will definitely come with a hybrid powertrain. This will also be based on the 1.5 liter strong hybrid system, in which the battery and motor components will be localized in India, so that the price remains low.
The estimated starting price could be around Rs 17.5 lakh. The new Seltos already comes with larger dimensions, panoramic sunroof, ADAS level 2+ and premium interiors. The hybrid variant will get additional features like EV mode, regenerative braking and smooth power delivery.
Both these hybrid SUVs will compete directly with Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hayrider, upcoming Renault Duster Hybrid and Honda Elevate Hybrid. The advantage of Hyundai-Kia is that they already have a strong dealer network, service support and brand value. Hybrid technology will reduce fuel consumption and emissions will also reduce.
