Next-Gen Seltos & Creta Hybrid Launch Details 2026- As the Indian auto industry rapidly shifts towards electrification, hybrid SUVs are emerging as the perfect middle ground between traditional petrol-diesel vehicles and full EVs. In this transition, Kia and Hyundai two of India’s most trusted Korean automakers are preparing to roll out next-generation strong hybrid versions of their bestselling SUVs Seltos & Creta Hybrid Launch Details 2026.
Let’s dive into the launch timeline, engine specs, hybrid technology, and what to expect in terms of features and design.
Why Hybrid? And Why Now?
Hybrid vehicles offer a great balance better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and no charging anxiety. Strong hybrid systems combine a petrol engine with an electric motor, allowing the vehicle to run on battery at low speeds and switch to engine power when needed.
As fuel prices rise and environmental concerns grow, hybrid SUVs like the upcoming Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta are expected to become game changers in the Indian mid-size SUV segment.
Kia Seltos Strong Hybrid- Launch, Specs & Features
India Launch Timeline
— Global Debut: End of 2025
— India Launch: Expected in 2026
Engine & Hybrid Details
— New Strong Hybrid Powertrain
1.5L NA petrol engine + electric motor
— Will be sold alongside existing engines
1.5L Turbo Petrol (tGDi)
1.5L Diesel (CRDi)
Design & Features
— All-new design language = sharper styling and SUV stance
— Refreshed cabin with
Larger infotainment system
Digital instrument cluster
Ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and connected car tech
— Expected safety upgrades with ADAS, 360-degree camera, and more
Internal- Seltos & Creta Hybrid Launch Details 2026
— Internally called SP3i, the test mules have already been spotted in South Korea and India.
Hyundai Creta Strong Hybrid- What to Expect
India Launch Timeline-
- Expected by 2027
- Will be the third-generation Creta (Codename: SX3)
Powertrain Options-
- Strong Hybrid setup likely same as Kia Seltos
- 1.5L NA petrol engine paired with electric motor
- Existing engines may continue:
- 1.5L NA petrol
- 1.5L turbo petrol
- 1.5L diesel
- Gearbox options: Manual and Automatic
Next-Gen Design & Premium Features-
- All-new platform and styling
- More upmarket interiors with
- New-age dashboard design
- Advanced driver assistance features
- Premium touchpoints, ambient lighting, and wireless features
- Targeting both domestic and global markets
Shared Technology, Bigger Impact
Both Hyundai and Kia are expected to share the strong hybrid technology, making it cost-effective and easier to implement across multiple models. This hybrid system may also be used in future 3-row SUVs, which could take on the likes of:
- Mahindra XUV700
- Tata Safari
- Hyundai Alcazar
Who Are The Rivals?
These hybrid variants of Seltos and Creta will go head-to-head with existing strong hybrid SUVs like
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Toyota Urban Cruiser
With the Korean twins entering the hybrid space, competition is set to heat up – especially if Kia and Hyundai get the pricing right.
Final-
The Kia Seltos Hybrid (2026) and Hyundai Creta Hybrid (2027) will bring fuel-efficient, eco-friendly, and feature-loaded options to Indian SUV buyers. Strong hybrids are a practical solution before India goes fully electric, and brands like Kia & Hyundai are ensuring they don’t fall behind.