Hybrid cars are becoming the new favourite among Indian buyers. Several factors are driving their raising popularity including high fuel prices, limited EV charging infrastructure, EVs’ range anxiety and upcoming stricter emission norms. Toyota Kisloskar Motor has taken an early lead in this segment with offerings such as the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Innova Hycross. Maruti Suzuki and Honda stood at second and third positions with the Grand Vitara and Invicto, and the City e:HEV, respectively.
Also Read: +18 Hybrid Cars & SUVs in India – Launch Timeline & Details
Now, 8 more major carmakers are set to enter the hybrid segment with new product launches including Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Tata, Skoda, Volkswagen, Renault and Nissan. Buyers will have a wider range of hybrid options in the next 3-4 years. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these carmakers has planned for the Indian market.
Hyundai and be
Hyundai and Kia will mark their entry in hybrid segment with the new-generation Creta and Seltos in 2027 and 2026, respectively. Both SUVs are likely to be offered with a 1.5L petrol-hybrid powertrain. The South Korean automakers are also planning hybrid 7-seater SUVs – codenamed Hyundai Ni1i (based on the China-spec Tucson LWB) and Kia MQ4i (based on the Sorento). Additionally, Hyundai will introduce Bayon compact crossover with a hybrid powertrain in 2026.
Mahindra and Tata
Homegrown automakers – Mahindra & Tata – are considering entering hybrid segment in coming years. However, neither company has announced concrete plan yet. According to reports, the Mahindra XUV3XO hybrid could be launched in 2026, followed by other range-extender hybrid cars. Tata is ready to explore hybrid options based on future market demand.
Skoda and Volkswagen
Skoda and Volkswagen are likely to introduce hybrid midsize SUVs and sedans by 2028. These models will be based on the India Main Platform (IMP), which is a derivative of the China Main Platform (CMP). The upcoming Skoda and Volkswagen SUVs will compete with the new-gen Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Renault Duster and new Nissan midsize SUV. The hybrid sedans from Volkswagen Group will rival the Honda City e:HEV.
Renault and Nissan
Renault is all set to bring back the iconic Duster nameplate with a new design language, an upgraded interior and a hybrid powertrain in 2026. Interestingly, a three-row version of the Duster will follow later, sharing its powertrain, features and components with the 5-seater model.
Nissan plans to introduce rebadged versions of the new Renault Duster and 7-seater Duster SUVs in 2026-2027. Both models are likely to come with the petrol-hybrid engines, while featuring Nissan’s familiar design language.
