Next-gen Hyundai Creta to Arrive Before Seltos Hybrid - More Details Here

India’s two popular mid-sized SUVs, the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos will enter the new generation in 2027 and 2026, respectively. It is no secret that both SUVs will receive a hybrid powertrain, and Kia has confirmed the next-gen Seltos hybrid will only arrive in 2027. What’s interesting is that the next-gen Hyundai Creta hybrid will arrive before the Seltos hybrid. 

What we know so far!

The next-gen Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos will utilise the same platform and powertrain options. The regular ICE-powered next Seltos will arrive first in 2026, while the hybrid version launch pushed to 2027. Hyundai being the parent company will first introduce the next Creta with hybrid engine to gain the competitive advantage. 

Moreover, the current Kia Seltos has been the second best-seller for the Korean automaker. The company expects that launching the next Seltos hybrid at a higher price tag could impact its sales. In order to avoid the negative market sentiments, Kia decided to introduce the next-gen Seltos with regular powetrains in 2026. 

Next-gen Hyundai Creta

Internally codenamed SX3, the third generation Hyundai Creta is yet to hit testing ground, but media reports claim that the SUV will grow in size and will come with all-new design and interior along with multiple powertrain choice. The ICE-powered SUV is reportedly to come with 4 powertrains, including two petrol engines, one diesel, and for the first time - a petrol-hybrid unit. 

Next-gen Kia Seltos

Interestingly, the international-spec Kia Seltos will receive a different hybrid engine. The SUV is reportedly to receive a new 1.6-litre GDR hybrid powertrain with an e-AWD option. The e-AWD system has a rear-mounted electric motor to provide all-weather traction. The India-spec hybrid powertrain is likely to be based on the existing 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine. The powertrain is likely to get an electric motor and a small battery pack. 

The spy images confirm that the SUV will have a boxy design with inspiration from Kia’s global SUV, Telluride. The regular model will arrive in 2026 with existing engine choices, including the 1.5L NA petrol, a 1.5L turbo petrol and a 1.5L turbo diesel.

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