New Duster, Creta and Seltos to Get Hybrid Engine

The mid-size SUV segment in India is set to witness its most significant powertrain shift, as brands are now ditching diesel and opt for greener tech. With the CAFE 3 norms looming for 2027, three of the most popular mid-sized SUVs - Duster, Creta and Seltos - are looking at advanced strong hybrid technology to drive sales.

New Renault Duster: The Diwali Dhamaka

Renault has confirmed that the new Duster hybrid will be launched in the country by Diwali 2026. The hybrid version will be equipped with a  109bhp, 1.8L, 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 49bhp electric motor, a 1.4kWh battery pack and a 20bhp hybrid starter generator (HSG). The combined power and torque output stands at 160bhp and 172Nm, respectively. It is set to be the most powerful hybrid vehicle in its category. 

The Duster hybrid will take on the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder hybrids. Both these rivals are powered by a 1.5L, 3-cylinder NA petrol engine with an electric motor and a 0.76 kWh battery pack. 

Next-gen Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos Hybrid

Hyundai has started testing the third-generation Creta in India as well as in Korea. The next-gen model is moving to the larger K3 platform, which is compatible with different powertrains including hybrid and EV. Hyundai has confirmed that the new Creta will come with a hybrid powertrain, and the same tech will also be offered with the Kia Seltos. 

Both models are expected to utilise the 1.5L NA petrol engine, a small battery pack and an electric motor. The hybrid version is likely to offer a certified fuel efficiency of around 25kmpl. Both models will rival the Maruti Grand Vitara Hybrid, Victoris hybrid and Toyota Hyryder hybrid. The next-gen Hyundai Creta is scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2027, and it will get hybrid before the Seltos.