In order to meet stringent emission norms, car manufacturers are planning to introduce strong-hybrid powertrains in the Indian market. The self-charging hybrid electric vehicles are emerging as the bridge between Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) and full electric vehicles. The sub-4-metre compact SUV segment will also see major transformation with the arrival of high-mileage hybrid options targeting a real-world fuel efficiency over 30kmpl.
Here is a look at the list of upcoming compact hybrid SUVs in the Indian market in the next 2-3 years.
Maruti Suzuki Fronx Hybrid
Maruti Suzuki has officially announced to introduce locally developed Series-Hybrid (HEV) technology, internally codenamed HEV, in its compact cars. The will be the first Maruti model to receive this hybrid powertrain. This series hybrid tech is cheaper than the Parallel hybrid. Unlike traditional parallel hybrids, the internal combustion engine acts solely as a generator to power a high-efficiency electric motor that drives the front wheels.
Powertrain Setup: it is packed with a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder, Z-Series petrol engine, which works as a range extender, paired with an electric motor and battery pack. The company is targeting a fuel efficiency of over 35kmpl. The powertrain will have local components, which will make it one of the most affordable strong hybrid setups in India.
Renault Bridger Hybrid
Renault will introduce the production version of the with Internal Combustion Engine in 2027. However, Renault has confirmed that it will also receive a hybrid powertrain. The sub-4m SUV is built on the localised RGMP (Renault Group Modular Platform) architecture. Renault is engineering multi-mode hybrid setups specifically for emerging markets, including India to offer high fuel economy.
It is expected to be packed with a 1.2-litre petrol engine coupled with a multi-mode e-motor hybrid drive system, with a targeted fuel economy of over 30+ kmpl. The Bridger previews a boxy, rugged SUV, which will have high ground clearance, and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel.
Honda Compact SUV (New WR-V)
Honda will launch an in the Indian market by 2028. It is most likely to be based on the WR-V SUV on sale in the Indonesian market. It is reported that the new Honda compact SUV will source the 1.2L engine from Horse Powertrain. The SUV is expected to be offered with petrol, hybrid and CNG powertrain options. The new WR-V is expected to be priced around Rs 9 lakh to Rs 12 lakh. Production of the SUV is likely to begin by October 2028.
Next-gen Kia Sonet/ Hyundai Venue
Kia is working on the which is scheduled to be launched in early 2027. The SUV will initially be offered with existing powertrain options, including a 1.2L NA petrol, 1.0L turbo petrol and 1.5L turbo diesel. Kia is also reportedly developing a hybrid powertrain for its compact cars, including the Sonet. Hyundai will also introduce the hybrid version of the new-generation Venue compact SUV. Both SUVs are based on the K1 platform that also underpins the Kia Syros. The hybrid engine is likely to be based on the 1.2L, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor and a small battery pack.
Next-gen Mahindra XUV 3XO (Vision X) and Vision S
Mahindra will introduce based on the Vision S and the Vision X concepts. Both SUVs will be developed on Mahindra’s new NU_IQ modular platform, which is compatible with multiple powertrain options. The Vision S based SUV is reportedly to be the smallest member of the Scorpio family, and is scheduled to be launched in early 2027. On the flip side, the Vision X is a crossover-styled SUV. It is likely to be the next-generation XUV 3XO. Both SUVs are likely to receive a strong hybrid engine at a later stage.