Overview
- Hyundai and Kia have confirmed plans to introduce hybrid versions of their India SUVs within the next 9–12 months, with hybridised Seltos models and a new‑generation Creta among the first expected entries.
- Spy photos and multiple reports show test mules of the new Creta and the 2027 Kia Sonet undergoing high‑altitude validation in Manali, with Creta prototypes revealing Pleos display hardware and heavy development activity.
- Published coverage reports the Creta is being made larger for India, with an expected increase in footprint of about 100mm and mechanical upgrades such as a multi‑link rear suspension and a column‑mounted shift‑by‑wire selector to improve ride and cabin packaging.
- Powertrain coverage says Hyundai will offer hybridised 1.5‑litre petrol options for Creta and Seltos and that the Creta Electric may switch from NMC to lower‑cost, longer‑life LFP battery chemistry, but exact outputs, battery specs and prices remain unconfirmed.
- Manufacturers plan staged launches through late 2026 into 2027 and expect three‑row seven‑seat hybrid SUVs by the end of 2027, a move that could raise showroom prices by roughly two lakh rupees while giving buyers better fuel economy and richer connected features.