New-Gen Hyundai Creta and New Kia Seltos to Get Hybrid Engine - Launch Details

It is no secret that most of the automakers are looking at hybrids as an alternative to the diesels, which are set to face the upcoming stringent emission norms. Renault has already announced the new Duster hybrid, which is scheduled to be launched by October 2026. Hyundai and Kia have also announced hybrids for the Indian market. Hyundai will launch the next-gen Creta with a strong hybrid engine, and the same powertrain is also expected to power  the new Kia Seltos and the Sorento 7-seater.

If media reports are to be believed, the new SUVs are expected to get a newly developed hybrid powertrain. The global-spec models are likely to get a 1.6L hybrid powertrain with a dual-motor AWD setup. However, the India-spec model is likely to get an all-new hybrid engine. This strong hybrid engine is likely to get a 1.5L, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine, two electric motors and a small battery pack. 

The new Kia Seltos and Creta hybrids will rival the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara hybrid, Maruti Victoris and the Toyota Hyryder. Kia has already launched the second-gen Seltos in our market, while the third-gen Hyundai Creta is expected to be launched in Q1, 2026. The company has already started testing the next-gen Creta SUV in South Korea. 

New Creta - Key Highlights

The next-gen Creta will be based on the global K3 platform instead of the SP2 architecture. It is claimed to be flexible enough to accommodate different body styles and engines, including petrol, diesel and hybrid. The SUV will ride on a longer wheelbase, which is expected to be around 2690mm. Moreover, the SUV will grow in size and will measure around 4.5 meters in length. 

The spy images reveal that the new Hyundai Creta will carry a more boxy, squarer shape instead of the roundish profile. Its higher-spec models will come with 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, which suggests that the SUV will have wider track with a more planted road presence. The SUV will come with electric Boss mode, adjustable headrests for all 5 passengers, a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, a 12.3-inch driver’s display and dual-zone climate control.

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