These Three SUVs Are Going To Get A Hybrid Powertrain Soon

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Renault, Hyundai and Kia are preparing to bring strong-hybrid technology to some of India’s most popular midsize SUVs

The midsize SUV segment is about to get a serious dose of electrification. Renault, Hyundai and Kia are all working on strong-hybrid versions of their SUVs, as manufacturers look for alternatives to diesel and conventional petrol engines ahead of tighter emission regulations. These are the three models that will be hybridised soon.

1. Renault Duster Hybrid

The new Duster is expected to be the first of the three to get its strong-hybrid powertrain. Renault has confirmed that the hybrid version is expected around the Diwali 2026 period. It will use a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a 49 bhp electric motor, a 20 bhp hybrid starter generator and a 1.4 kWh battery pack.

Also Read: Kia Sorento Hybrid Confirmed To Get AWD In Latest Teaser For India

The combined output is expected to be around 160 bhp and 172 Nm. This should make the Duster Hybrid considerably more interesting than simply being an efficiency-focused version. The larger engine and electric assistance could give it a useful performance advantage over the smaller hybrid systems currently available in this segment.

2. Hyundai Creta Hybrid

Hyundai is also preparing a strong-hybrid powertrain for the Creta, although it is expected to arrive in 2027. Details of the India-spec system are still limited, but the move is part of Hyundai’s broader push towards hybrid technology as it looks to reduce its dependence on diesel engines in the midsize SUV segment.

Spy Source: amarttyajit_sinha/instagram

The Creta already has a wide range of petrol and diesel powertrains, so a strong hybrid could give Hyundai another option for buyers who want better fuel efficiency without making the jump to a fully electric SUV. The hybrid system is also expected to bring the kind of low-speed electric assistance that makes these powertrains particularly well suited to city driving.

Also Read: 3 Big Mass Market SUV Launches Happening Soon From Hyundai In India

3. Kia Seltos Hybrid

The Kia Seltos will follow a similar route. The next-generation Seltos is already on sale with petrol and diesel engines, but a strong-hybrid version is expected to join the range in 2027. Kia is likely to share technology with Hyundai, although the final specifications for the Seltos hybrid have not yet been revealed. This could be a particularly important addition to the Seltos range. With buyers becoming increasingly conscious of running costs, a hybrid Seltos would give Kia a direct answer to the efficiency offered by Toyota and Maruti’s established strong-hybrid SUVs.

Unlike a mild hybrid, a self-charging strong hybrid can drive the vehicle using electric power alone for short periods, while the petrol engine takes over when more power is required. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and the engine, so there is no need to plug the vehicle into a charger.For buyers who aren’t ready for an EV, this makes a lot of sense. You get better efficiency in stop-go traffic without having to worry about charging infrastructure or long-distance range.

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Fourth-Gen Skoda Superb To Be Launched In India With A Diesel Engine

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All-new Skoda Superb could be the company’s most comfort- and safety-focused car in India, challenging hybrid-only Toyota Camry

Introduced in November 2023, the fourth-gen Skoda Superb had its Indian debut in January 2025 but still hasn’t arrived in showrooms. According to a new report from Autocar India, the latest model will finally be launched in India in the first half of 2027.

The all-new Skoda Superb measures 4,912 mm in length, 1,849 mm in width, and 1,481 mm in height. Compared to the previous-generation model, it is 43 mm longer, 15 mm narrower, and 12 mm taller. Its wheelbase is the same, though, spanning 2,841 mm. It offers 645 litres of luggage space, up 20 litres from the previous generation, and folding the rear seat expands this capacity to 1,795 litres.

Skoda stopped offering diesel engines across its line-up in India with the country’s transition in April 2020. With the fourth-gen Superb, it will restart offering this option. However, the company has no plans to bring diesel engines to its mass-market products like the Kylaq, Slavia, and Kushaq. Even for the Kodiaq, there’s still no plan to introduce a diesel engine option.

Also Read: 2026 Skoda Slavia Facelift Teased Ahead Of Launch On August 18 In India

Internationally, the all-new Skoda Superb is available with a choice of two diesel engines, both 2.0-litre units and paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The base variant produces 148 hp and 360 Nm of torque, while the top variant develops 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Skoda uses the base variant in FWD configuration and the top variant in AWD configuration. The car’s AWD system can transfer up to 100 per cent of torque to the rear axle and up to 85% to a single wheel.

In India, Skoda showcased the all-new Superb with the top variant of the 2.0-litre diesel engine, along with the standard 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system. The company is testing the diesel-AWD configuration on public roads and is likely to launch the car with the same setup next year.

Also Read: Skoda India Posts Record Growth In H1 2026, 38,894 Units Sold

The all-new Skoda Superb will likely be offered in India with features such as LED Matrix headlights, full-LED rear lights with dynamic indicators, and a kick-activated power tailgate. Inside, massage front seats with ventilation and heating functions, three Skoda Smart Dials with built-in 1.26-inch displays, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 12-speaker Canton sound system will likely be the highlights.

 

The latest model is offered with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems and up to ten airbags, and most of these features should also make it to India. Adaptive dampers may also be offered, positioning the all-new Superb as Skoda’s most comfort-focused, high-tech car in India.

Skoda will import the all-new Superb as a CBU from Bratislava, Slovakia, but the India-EU FTA coming into effect by next year could help it price the car more competitively than the previous model, which, priced at Rs. 54 lakh (ex-showroom), didn’t find much success.

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6 New EVs To Launch In India Within Next 12 Months

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From JSW MG Motor to Maruti Suzuki, four companies to launch six new electric cars in India within a year

The Indian car market has seen a barrage of new electric model launches since last year, mainly thanks to homegrown brands Tata Motors and Mahindra. The momentum will continue, with six new electric cars expected to go on sale in the next 12 months.

1. MG Hector Tomahawk

The MG Hector Tomahawk will be a new three-row SUV derived from the Chinese Wuling Starlight 560. It will be launched in a pure electric variant on 26 August and later in a plug-in hybrid variant. The pure electric variant will likely have a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) producing 134 hp and 200 Nm of torque and a 56.7 kWh LFP battery pack. This setup should give the vehicle a top speed of 160 km/h and a range of around 500 kilometres.

Also Read: Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq Launched In India From Rs. 11.45 Lakh Under BaaS

2. New Tata Tigor.ev

Tata Tigor facelift rendering

Later this year, the Tata Tigor.ev will receive its most comprehensive facelift since its commercial deliveries began in December 2017. The new Tata Tigor.ev will likely feature sleeker headlamps and bumpers, a revised front grille, new bumpers, and a redesigned dashboard. While no mechanical changes are expected, visually the car should look close to a new-generation model.

3. Tata Safari.ev

Tata Safari EV Rendering

The Tata Safari and Tata Altroz are now the brand’s only two models still not available as an EV. Next quarter, Tata Motors is likely to launch the pure electric variant of the former, targeting customers looking for a large family-hauling electric SUV like the Mahindra XEV 9S or the MG Hector Tomahawk EV. The Tata Safari.ev will likely be offered in the same standard-range RWD, long-range RWD, and long-range AWD variants as the Tata Harrier.ev. Depending on the configuration selected, it could be able to travel around 600 kilometres on a single charge.

4. Hyundai HE1i EV

source: carxplain08/Insta

The Hyundai HE1i EV will be the brand’s new rival to the Tata Nexon.ev and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. It will feature a squarish body with rugged styling elements, as well as modern details such as Parametric Pixel-themed lighting, flush-fitted door handles, and aero wheels. Hyundai will likely offer it with two battery pack options, both consisting of LFP cells locally manufactured by Exide Energy.

Also Read: 3 Big Mass Market SUV Launches Happening Soon From Hyundai In India

5. Maruti YMC

Image Source: CarIndiaNews

Maruti Suzuki will likely launch a new electric MPV codenamed ‘YMC’ in the first half of next year. Spy shots have revealed that this will be an SUV-styled model belonging to the same segment as the Kia Carens Clavis EV. It will be based on the same platform as the e Vitara and likely be offered with the same battery pack and powertrain options. It could have a range of up to around 500 kilometres.

6. Mahindra BE 07

The Mahindra BE 07 will be a new five-seat electric SUV positioned between the BE 6 and XEV 9S, competing with the Tata Harrier.ev It will likely be 4.6 metres long, 1.9 metres wide, and 1.7 metres tall. It is expected to be launched in standard-range and extended-range RWD variants with powertrains and battery packs similar to the ones offered in these other EVs from Mahindra’s Born Electric range. Most features are also likely to be shared with these existing models. The new C-SUV will likely have a range of up to approximately 650 kilometres.

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Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq Launched In India From Rs. 11.45 Lakh Under BaaS

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New Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq gets three-screen cockpit, Google Gemini-powered AI assistant, new drive modes and Battery as a Service option

Mahindra has introduced the BE 6 Sporteq in India as a new series built around additional technology, personalisation and performance-based features. Prices start at Rs. 11.45 lakh (ex-showroom) under the Battery as a Service ownership plan where the battery is charged at Rs. 3.75 per km based on a stated usage assumption of 60 km per day.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin on August 26, 2026 coinciding with Onam. The Sporteq range is offered across eight variants while the range-topping Launch Edition and Formula E Freedom Edition gain distinct design and equipment themes. The biggest visual change comes inside the cabin where variants from Two onwards receive a triple screens.

The new arrangement expands the digital interface across the dashboard and is a substantial departure from the original BE 6 interior. Customers who prefer the earlier motorsport-inspired dashboard can instead opt for the Formula E Freedom Edition which retains the two-screen layout and signature halo element.

Variant	Battery	Capacity	Price in Lakhs
ONE	BaaS	59 kWh	11.45
ONE	Owned	59 kWh	19.45
TWO	BaaS	59 kWh	12.95
TWO	Owned	59 kWh	20.95
THREE	Owned	59 kWh	21.95
THREE	Owned	70 kWh	22.95
THREE+	Owned	70 kWh	23.95
THREE+	Owned	79 kWh	24.95
FOUR	Owned	79 kWh	26.95
Launch Edition	Owned	79 kWh	26.95
FE	Owned	79 kWh	24.45
FE FOUR	Owned	79 kWh	26.95

The Launch Edition gets a Graphite Storm exterior shade paired with a full Racing Tan leatherette interior while the Sporteq range is available in 12 colours – four of which are new – Rosso Impulso, Ruby Velvet, Graphite Storm and Firestorm Orange Satin. Mahindra has also expanded the BE 6’s software package through six new Teq Suites – powered by its MAIA artificial intelligence architecture.

The Teq_Talk uses Google Gemini and 17 specialised AI agents to support more than 100 vehicle functions and 48 applications covering areas such as navigation, music, news and vehicle controls. The Teq_Play adds karaoke, in-car gaming, private audio, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, GrooveMe Party and Milestone functions. Mahindra claims karaoke and the in-car gaming suite are firsts from an Indian automotive manufacturer.

Spec	Detail
Battery options	59 kWh, 70 kWh, 79 kWh
Acceleration (Freedom Edition, with Acceleration Boost)	0-100 kmph in 6.44 seconds
BaaS battery cost	₹3.75/km (based on 60 km/day usage)
Drive modes	Custom Drive Mode, Drift Mode, Tribe Drive, Revive & Revive SOS, Acceleration Boost (Freedom Edition exclusive)

The Teq_Drive package introduces Custom Drive Mode, Drift Mode, Tribe Drive, Revive and Revive SOS while the Formula E Freedom Edition gets an exclusive Acceleration Boost function. Meanwhile, the Teq_Me adds automatic user-profile detection while Teq_Secure gets Secure360 Pro, intrusion alerts and an expanded digital-key ecosystem.

The latter supports iPhone, Apple Watch, Android and Samsung devices alongside NFC key cards. The Teq_xting adds personalised messages that can be displayed through the tailgate. The Formula E Freedom Edition is positioned as the sportiest member of the new range and draws inspiration from Mahindra Racing’s electric motorsport programme.

It gets the original BE 6 headlamp design, satin-finish exterior colours, subtle tricolour detailing and a Black and Firestorm Orange cabin. The two-screen cockpit and halo design separate it from the regular SPORTEQ variants while the Acceleration Boost function cuts the claimed 0 to 100 kmph time to 6.44 seconds. Mahindra Racing’s recent Formula E results include victories in Monaco and Tokyo plus four pole positions for Edoardo Mortara.

The company plans to bring in the newly introduced software and technology features to existing BE 6, XEV 9e and XEV 9S owners through OTA updates from January 2027. Availability will depend on the vehicle model and variant – so not every feature will reach every existing vehicle.

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Maruti Suzuki Baleno Facelift To Launch On Sep 5 – What To Expect

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2026 Maruti Suzuki Baleno facelift will get revised styling and more equipment onboard while its existing petrol and CNG engines are expected to carry over

Maruti Suzuki is set to launch the Baleno facelift in India on September 5, 2026 as the second generation premium hatchback is destined for its first significant update since the current version arrived in 2022. The test prototypes have already indicated changes to the exterior while the cabin could gain additional equipment.

The front fascia will receive the biggest visual revision. Spy shots indicate a redesigned grille featuring a horizontal element across its centre potentially finished in chrome and connecting the headlamp units. The boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lamps are expected to carry over while the front bumper appears to gain a revised design.

The side profile should see fewer changes primarily centred around a set of new alloy wheels. The rear could receive a redesigned bumper but the existing tail-lamp shape could be retained alongside the roof-mounted spoiler and rear wiper. The largest car producer in the country appears to be taking an evolutionary route for the facelift.

Also Read: Upcoming 7-Seater Maruti Suzuki YMC Electric MPV – Top 5 Things To Know

Image Source: Harsh Vlogs/Youtube

The cabin could receive a few equipment upgrades despite retaining the current dashboard. Spy pictures have shown the existing arrangement including the nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, trapezoidal AC vents, silver detailing and three-spoke steering wheel with mounted control. The brand could introduce revised seat upholstery, ambient lighting and a single-pane sunroof.

Several existing features are expected to carry over such as automatic climate control, a six-speaker audio system, powered ORVMs and an auto-dimming IRVM. The powertrain lineup may stay familiar as the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine currently develops 90 hp but the chances of it being replaced by the three-pot Z-series mill seen in the latest Dzire do exist.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Records 24 Lakh+ Sales In FY26, 7 New SUVs Arriving In Next 5 Years

Image Source: CarIndiaNews

It is expected to continue alongside a five-speed manual and five-speed AMT. A CNG version paired exclusively with the manual gearbox will be on offer. Maruti Suzuki is expected to price the updated Baleno slightly above the model and it will continue to take on the Tata Altroz, Hyundai i20 and Toyota Glanza.

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Indian Olympic Medallist Mary Kom Takes Delivery Of New Toyota Hilux

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Ninth generation Toyota Hilux arrives in India at Rs. 31.99 lakh (ex-showroom) with a new 4×2 automatic variant, 204 PS diesel engine and design revisions

Six-time world champion and Olympic medallist M. C. Mary Kom has taken delivery of the ninth generation Toyota Hilux in India adding a prominent sporting personality to the latest version of Toyota’s lifestyle pickup. The handover took place at a Toyota dealership in the Delhi-NCR region ahead of Independence Day, shortly after the new Hilux went on sale in India on July 28, 2026.

Toyota has priced the new Hilux from Rs. 31.99 lakh (ex-showroom), while the range-topping VX 4×4 AT costs Rs. 36.69 lakh (ex-showroom). The line-up now consists of GX 4×2 AT, GX 4×4 AT and VX 4×4 AT variants. The rear-wheel-drive automatic version is a new addition for India, creating a lower-cost entry point into the Hilux range for customers who do not require four-wheel drive.

Power comes from the familiar 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, but output has risen to 204 PS and 500 Nm. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard across all three variants. Toyota has also revised the IMV ladder-frame chassis, bringing suspension and chassis changes intended to improve ride quality while retaining the pickup’s off-road credentials. Payload capacity is close to one tonne, while the Hilux can tow up to 3.5 tonnes and wade through water up to 700 mm deep.

The cabin has received a far more extensive makeover than the exterior. An all-new dashboard replaces the older utilitarian layout, while a 12.3-inch touchscreen sits at the centre of the new interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, i-Connect connected-car technology, a 360-degree camera and parking assistance are part of the technology package. A larger digital instrument display and tyre-pressure monitoring system also feature while the safety package consists of seven airbags, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and Toyota’s GOA body structure.

Four-wheel-drive versions retain selectable 2H, 4H and 4L modes, while Multi-Terrain Select provides different settings for varying surfaces. Downhill Assist Control is also available for controlled descents. Toyota has therefore retained the mechanical character associated with the Hilux while adding electronic systems that make its off-road hardware easier to operate across demanding terrain.

The front fascia now features a broad black trim element, slimmer LED headlamps, integrated daytime running lamps and revised fog-lamp treatment. Squarer wheel arches, new bumper detailing and black alloy wheels add to the redesigned appearance. A rear deck boarding step, tailgate assist mechanism and lockable tailgate add practical touches to the pickup’s cargo area.

The new Hilux measures 5,320 mm long, 1,885 mm wide and 1,815 mm tall, while the 3,085 mm wheelbase remains unchanged. Six exterior shades are available: Sulphur Metallic, Platinum Pearl White Metallic, Attitude Black, Ash, Emotional Red and Super White. Toyota has also announced finance packages, exchange benefits and an introductory EMI starting from Rs. 39,999.

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Maruti Baleno Facelift To Launch On September 5

Maruti Baleno facelift arrives September 5 with refreshed styling, added features and unchanged engines.

Maruti Suzuki is set to introduce the facelifted Baleno in India on September 5, 2026, giving its premium hatchback a mid-cycle refresh nearly four years after the current-generation model was launched. While the company has yet to reveal official details, recent test mule sightings have offered a glimpse of the changes expected on the updated model.

The most noticeable revisions are likely to be at the front. Spy images indicate that the Baleno facelift will receive a redesigned grille featuring a horizontal chrome strip connecting the headlights, along with a revised front bumper. The headlamp design is expected to remain largely unchanged, retaining the existing LED daytime running light signature. The updated bumper also appears to omit the front fog lamps seen on the current model.

From the side, the facelift is expected to remain largely familiar, with newly designed alloy wheels being the primary visual change. At the rear, minor revisions such as a redesigned bumper are anticipated, while the tail-lamps, roof spoiler and rear wiper are likely to carry over from the outgoing model.

Inside the cabin, the overall dashboard layout is expected to remain unchanged. However, Maruti could introduce fresh upholstery and additional premium touches to make the Baleno more competitive. A single-pane sunroof and ambient lighting are among the features expected to be added, bringing the hatchback closer to rivals that already offer these amenities. Existing equipment such as the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, powered ORVMs, auto-dimming IRVM and six-speaker audio system is likely to continue.

Mechanically, no significant changes are expected. The facelifted Baleno is likely to retain the familiar 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 90 HP, paired with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT. The factory-fitted CNG variant, powered by the same engine with an output of 77.5 HP, is also expected to continue with a manual transmission.

Pricing is expected to see a modest increase over the current Baleno, which is priced between Rs. 5.99 lakhs and Rs. 9.14 lakhs (ex-showroom). Once launched, the updated hatchback will continue to compete with rivals such as the Tata Altroz, Hyundai i20 and Toyota Glanza.

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