Next-gen Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta to Get Hybrid Engine

Hybrid war is going to intensify as brands like Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra and Renault are ready to challenge Toyota and Maruti Suzuki dominance in the hybrid category. Hyundai and Kia have already confirmed that they will launch hybrid cars in India. While the next-gen Kia Seltos will be the first to receive a hybrid engine, Hyundai is readying the next-gen Creta with a hybrid powertrain. 

Next-gen Kia Seltos

It is reported that the next-gen Kia Seltos will make global debut in January 2026. The new model will come with comprehensive design changes in-line with the latest Kia cars, including EV5, Syros, Carnival and others. We believe that the India-spec model could launch in the first quarter of 2026. The hybrid version is expected to be launched in 2027.

The global-spec model is likely to get a 141bhp, 1.6-litre hybrid engine that also powers the Hyundai Kona Hybrid and Kia Niro. It will also receive a dedicated electronic all-time four-wheel (E-AWD) system. The India-spec Seltos is likely to receive a different hybrid engine. The new Seltos could get a new hybrid powertrain based on a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine. 

The hybrid setup is expected to use the locally developed 1.5L NA petrol engine, which will be paired with a small battery pack and an electric motor. The SUV will continue to be offered with the existing petrol and diesel engine choices, including a 1.5L NA petrol, a 1.5L turbo petrol and a 1.5L turbo diesel. 

Next-gen Hyundai Creta

Internally codenamed SX3, the next-generation Hyundai Creta will be introduced in our market in 2027. The new Creta will also receive the new 1.5-litre petrol-hybrid engine, which will first debut in the new-Seltos. Adding to it, the SUV will continue to be offered with the current engine choices - a 1.5L petrol, a 1.5L turbo petrol and a 1.5L turbo diesel. 

The next-gen Hyundai Creta will rival the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and the upcoming Renault Duster hybrid. Hyundai is also developing a new 7-seater SUV, which will also get the new hybrid powertrain. 

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