Kia’s Upcoming Hybrids Could Take on Toyota and Maruti

Published ByKonica Singh

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2026-09-08

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Kia’s Upcoming Hybrids Could Take on Toyota and Maruti

Kia is preparing new hybrid cars for India Seltos Hybrid could arrive around 2027-28 Carnival Hybrid could join the lineup later

Kia is getting ready to add hybrid cars to its India lineup. The company is expected to bring hybrid versions of models such as the Seltos and Carnival in the coming years. This could put Kia in direct competition with hybrid cars from Toyota and Maruti Suzuki.

Hybrid cars are becoming more popular in India as they offer better fuel efficiency than regular petrol cars without the need to worry about charging. Kia could now use this growing demand to expand its lineup beyond petrol and diesel models.

Also Read: Toyota to Soon Launch Glanza Facelift and New Fortuner

Kia Seltos Hybrid Could Come First

The next-generation Kia Seltos is expected to get a strong-hybrid powertrain. It could arrive in India around 2027-28. The Seltos Hybrid is likely to use a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor and a small battery. This setup should help the SUV deliver better mileage than the regular petrol versions.

The hybrid system is also expected to be used in the next-generation Hyundai Creta. Since Kia and Hyundai share technology in several areas, the two SUVs could get similar hybrid setups. The Seltos Hybrid will take on models such as the Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, which already offer strong-hybrid options.

Carnival Could Also Get a Hybrid

Kia could also bring a hybrid version of the Carnival to India. The MPV currently gets a 2.2-litre diesel engine in India, but a hybrid version is already sold in some global markets.

The global Carnival Hybrid uses a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The setup produces 242hp in some markets. If Kia brings this powertrain to India, the Carnival Hybrid could offer a more fuel-efficient option for buyers looking for a large premium family car.

Kia Could Take on Toyota and Maruti

Toyota and Maruti Suzuki currently have an advantage in India's strong-hybrid market. The Grand Vitara and Hyryder have been among the better-known hybrid SUVs, while Maruti has also added the Victoris to its lineup.

The Seltos Hybrid could give Kia a strong entry into this space. The SUV already has a popular name in India, and adding a hybrid option could attract buyers who want better mileage without moving to an EV. The Carnival Hybrid, meanwhile, would give Kia a hybrid option in the premium MPV segment.

Also Read: Maruti’s New 7-Seater EV - Key Details Out

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About Author

Konica Singh

Sub-Editor

Konica Singh is a passionate Automotive Journalist who brings the world of cars to life, from EV trends to exciting new car launches. Backed by 7 years in content creation, she is skilled in writing, editing, and SEO strategy that drives engagement.

Education: MA English (Delhi University)

Social Media: LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Email: konica.carlelo@gmail.com

Location: New Delhi

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