Demand for hybrid cars is increasing in India. Honda, Renault, Kia, Maruti and Toyota will launch new models by 2026. These include ZR-V, Duster, Sorento and 7-seater Grand Vitara/Highrider, which will increase competition in the market.
BhaThe demand for hybrid vehicles is increasing year by year. The main reason for this is the excellent mileage and less pollution, which is attracting more and more customers. At present, Toyota Kirloskar Motor dominates the hybrid car market. But in the coming months, new models of Honda, Renault, Kia and Maruti Suzuki are coming, due to which the competition is expected to become even tougher.
Honda ZR-V
According to reports, Honda’s new premium SUV, ZR-V, may arrive in the Indian market in July 2026. The biggest feature of this vehicle will be its 2.0-litre direct injection petrol engine and the company’s E-Strong Hybrid technology. This powertrain will generate power of 184 BHP and torque of 315 Newton meters. The company claims that this SUV will give a mileage of up to 22.8 kilometers per liter.
Renault Duster Hybrid
Renault Duster, which once created a stir in the Indian market, is now preparing to make a comeback in hybrid avatar. It is believed that it will be launched in the Diwali season of 2026. It will have a hybrid system with a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine along with a 1.4 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack. The company hopes that this vehicle will get a great response in the market.
kia sorento
If reports are to be believed, Sorento could be Kia’s first hybrid model in the Indian market. It is a premium SUV with three-row seats, which is likely to be launched around the Diwali season. It is being said that a new 1.5-liter hybrid engine can be found in its Indian version. In the global market, Sorento is currently sold with a 1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid engine.
Maruti Grand Vitara (7-Seater)
Maruti Suzuki is also preparing a more spacious 7-seater version of its Grand Vitara. This vehicle has been spotted testing on Indian roads and it can be launched by the end of 2026. According to reports, like the current model, it will also have 1.5-litre strong hybrid and 1.5-litre mild hybrid engine options.
Toyota Highrider (7-seater)
Maruti’s partner Toyota is also developing a three-row version of its urban cruiser Highrider. This vehicle may also hit the market by the end of 2026. It is expected that its design and features will be largely similar to the existing 5-seater model, but it will have a larger cabin and third row seats, which will be its main feature. According to reports, it will also be provided with a 1.5-litre strong hybrid engine.
Competition will increase in hybrid market
The popularity of hybrid technology is continuously increasing in India. In such a situation, with the arrival of these new models, competition in the market will become even stronger. Auto experts believe that there will be many great options available in the coming years for customers who want to reduce petrol expenses and switch to vehicles that are better for the environment.