Alternative fuels are steadily becoming the preferred choices among Indian car buyers. Petrol and CNG held an equal market share of 36% in 2025, while diesel remained stable at around 19-20%. EVs and strong hybrid accounted for 2.7% and 2.3% percent of the market, respectively.
In 2026, Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles (PHEV) will also expected to emerge as a strong alternative to ICE models as OEMs such as JSW Motors, MG and BYD have lined up three new PHEV SUVs catering different segments.
Let’s take a look at the expected specifications and details of these upcoming plug-in hybrid models.
Jetour T2
Jetour T2 will be the first model to launch under the partnership between the JSW Group and China’s Chery Automobile, and is slated to hit roads in late 2026. It will be followed by the Chery iCar V23 compact electric SUV. Similar to the global model, the India-bound JSW Jetour T2 is likely to be offer with a 1.5L turbo petrol engine paired with two electric motors, a 26.7kWh LFP battery pack and a hybrid transmission. Read more…
MG Starlight 560
Based on the China-spec Wuling Starlight 560, the upcoming MG plug-in hybrid SUV will arrive by Diwali 2026. It’s expected to be offered with a 1.5L petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a 20.5kWh battery pack. The combined output is rated at 197bhp and 230Nm of torque. The PHEV delivers a pure electric range of 100km, which can extend up to 1,100km with a full 52-litre fuel tank. Read more…
BYD Leopard 8
BYD Leopard 8 was recently patented in India; however, its launch timeline is yet to be revealed. It’s a luxury plug-in hybrid off-roader, already on sale in select global markets as the Fangchengbao Bao 8 and the Denza B8. The powertrain consists of a 2.0L, four-cylinder turbo petrol engine paired two electric motors and a 36.8kWh battery pack. It delivers a whooping power of 748bhp and accelerates 0 to 100kmph in 4.8 seconds. Read more…