The Indian automotive market is gearing up for a surge in hybrid SUV offerings, with major manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota, and MG planning to introduce new models in the coming years. This trend reflects a growing focus on fuel efficiency and alternative powertrain solutions in the SUV segment.
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota are leading the charge, with plans to launch three-row versions of their popular midsize SUVs, the Grand Vitara and Urban Cruiser Hyryder, respectively. These new models, expected to arrive in the first half of 2025, will likely offer both six- and seven-seater configurations.
Interestingly, recent spy shots of the three-row Grand Vitara reveal a design inspired by the electric eVitara, suggesting a more premium positioning compared to its five-seater counterpart. This indicates a potential trend of hybrid SUVs occupying a higher market segment.
Maruti Suzuki is also reportedly working on a mid-life update for the Fronx, which will feature an in-house developed strong hybrid system targeting a fuel efficiency of over 30 kmpl. Toyota, on the other hand, is considering introducing a mild-hybrid version of the popular Fortuner SUV.
Other major players like Mahindra and Tata Motors have also acknowledged the importance of hybrid technology and are likely to expand their offerings in this segment.
MG Motor, while primarily focused on expanding its electric vehicle portfolio in India, is also exploring the introduction of hybrid models. Meanwhile, Hyundai is reportedly developing a new premium SUV, codenamed Ni1i, which will be positioned between the Tucson and the recently updated Alcazar.
This new Hyundai SUV is expected to launch within the next two and a half years and will be produced at the company’s Talegaon facility in Maharashtra. It is likely to share its platform with the long-wheelbase Tucson sold in China and will compete with established rivals like the Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari. A fuel-efficient strong hybrid powertrain is expected to be a key selling point.
With its larger cabin and premium positioning, the Ni1i will target a higher price segment than the Alcazar. Globally, the Tucson already offers a 1.6-liter petrol hybrid engine and a plug-in hybrid variant, which could influence the powertrain options for the Indian market.
As the demand for fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles continues to grow, the Indian automotive market is poised for an exciting wave of hybrid SUV launches. These new models promise to offer a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and practicality, catering to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.