Hyundai and Kia have announced their plans to enter the Indian hybrid vehicle segment with several new models starting from 2027. Both carmakers will introduce hybrid versions of the next-gen Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, which will be followed by three-row premium hybrid SUVs. All four hybrid models are expected to launch by the end of 2027.

Codenamed Ni1i, Hyundai’s upcoming 7-seater hybrid SUV is expected to be based on the long-wheelbase version of the Hyundai Tucson, which is currently on sale in China. On the other hand, Kia India will introduce the Sorento-based hybrid SUV (codenamed MQ4i) to challenge the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and upcoming hybrid SUVs from Maruti Suzuki, Toyota and Renault.

Confusion Around 1.5L or 1.2L Hybrid Powertrain

Official powertrain details are not available at the moment. Earlier reports suggested that Hyundai and Kia might use a hybrid powertrain based on their proven 1.5L petrol engine. However, the latest media reports claim that Hyundai is working on an all-new hybrid-ready 1.2L TGDi petrol engine, which is slated to debut in the upcoming Hyundai Bayon.

Hyundai’s new 1.2L turbo petrol engine will power the brand’s future hybrid models across both domestic and global markets. The new-generation Hyundai Creta might also share its hybrid powertrain with the Bayon compact SUV along with carrying the existing engine options.

Price Expectations

In terms of pricing, the upcoming Hyundai 7-seater hybrid SUV (Ni1i) is estimated to cost between Rs 20 lakh – Rs 25 lakh. Meanwhile, the Kia Sorento could be priced around Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom). The hybrid versions of all-new Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos are expected to command a premium of around Rs 2 lakh premium over their ICE counterparts.

Hyundai Bayon & New-Gen Kia Sonet

As mentioned above, the Bayon compact SUV could mark debut of the brand’s all-new 1.2L TGDi petrol engine. Therefore, there is a possibility that it could receive a hybrid powertrain at a later stage. On the other hand, the next-generation Kia Sonet is scheduled to launch in 2027 with comprehensive design changes and feature upgrades. The subcompact SUV is also expected to receive a hybrid powertrain in 2028 or 2029.