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Following mid-size SUVs over the recent years, compact SUVs to start getting fuel-sipping electrification tech from next year
Hybrid powertrains have started becoming a popular choice among SUVs in India following the arrival of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryrder, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Maruti Victoris. While currently their availability is mainly to the mid-size segment, from next year, even compact SUVs will be available with a hybrid system.
In the first half of 2027, Maruti Suzuki is expected to introduce a facelifted version of the Fronx, and along with this major refresh, the company will likely roll out a hybrid powertrain. Unlike other hybrid cars sold in India, this one would feature series-hybrid technology, in which the petrol engine is not connected to the wheels and only used as a generator.
Media reports suggest the Fronx Hybrid will have a modified version of Maruti Suzuki’s Z12E 1.2-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine under the hood. There’s no word on the type or output of the electric motor that will be driving the front wheels, but this setup is expected to deliver a fuel economy of around 35 km/l, which would make it one of the most efficient cars in our market.
Also Read: 3 Upcoming Hyundai Hybrid SUVs You Should Wait For In India
In the second half of the year, Renault will launch the production version of the Bridger concept. Designed and engineered mainly for India, the Bridger will feature a squarish body, a high ground clearance, hidden rear door handles, and a truly spacious and generously equipped interior.
Renault has confirmed that it will offer a hybrid powertrain as an option in the Bridger, and media reports say the electrified variant’s motive power will come from a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. Whether the company plans to give this option right from launch or introduce it a few months later remains to be seen.
Also Read: All-New Toyota Compact Land Cruiser SUV To Likely Debut In 2028
Kia is working on the second-gen Sonet with plans to launch it in 2027. The company recently started testing the future model on public roads with prototypes featuring the final design. It has also recently confirmed that it will introduce a hybrid powertrain in the Sonet by 2029, and we expect that to happen only after the full model change due next year, sometime in 2028.
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