Penetration of hybrid vehicles is increasing rapidly in the Indian market. However, the count of hybrid models in the mainstream segment remains relatively lower that ofe electric vehicles. In 2025, OEMs such Maruti Suzuki, Kia and Toyota are planning to launch new hybrid SUVs, which are likely to be high on fuel efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at all key details of India’s top 4 upcoming hybrid SUVs.
Maruti Fronx Strong Hybrid
Maruti Suzuki’s Fronx compact crossover is all set to receive a major update this year. Official launch and other details are still under the wraps, but we’ve gathered some exciting details of the 2025 Maruti Fronx facelift. The major highlight of the updated model will be the introduction of Maruti Suzuki’s own strong hybrid powertrain.
Codenamed HEV, this strong hybrid technology will have a series hybrid setup, which is reported to be more cost effective than Toyota’s series-parallel hybrid tech. The latter one is currently used in the Maruti Grand Vitara midsize SUV and Invicto premium MPV.
Speculations on rife that the 2025 Maruti Fronx hybrid might deliver a fuel efficiency of over 35kmpl. If achieved, it will make the Fronx the most fuel efficient vehicle in the country. The updated Fronx could also be the brand’s second model to feature ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) suite as one of its test mules was spotted with an ADAS sensor. Minimal cosmetic changes and feature upgrades are also expected. Compared to its regular version, the Maruti Fronx strong hybrid will certainly be priced premium.
Maruti/Toyota 7-Seater SUV
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota’s upcoming 7-seater hybrid SUVs are among the much-awaited new car launches of this year. These models will essentially be bigger version of the Grand Vitara and Hyryder SUVs, respectively. The design and styling of the upcoming Maruti and Toyota 7-seater SUVs will be similar to their 5-seater counterparts. The feature list is also expected to remain largely unchanged. However, the three-row SUVs will have spacious cabin accommodating an extra row of seat. A few additional features might also be introduced to enhance their value proposition.
Talking about their powertrain setup, the upcoming Maruti and Toyota 7-seater SUVs will feature the same Toyota’s 92bhp, 1.5L, 3-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine paired to an electric motor pushing out power worth 79bhp and 141Nm of torque. This hybrid setup will deliver a combined power output of 115bhp. Transmission duties will be performed by an e-CVT gearbox. These hybrid SUVs might also be offered with the 103bhp, 1.5L K15C petrol mild hybrid powertrain option.
New-Gen Kia Seltos
Kia’s best-selling SUV – Seltos – is ready to enter into its second generation this year. The carmaker has already started testing the SUV’s facelifted version, which has been caught on camera revealing some interesting details. The 2025 Kia Seltos will receive design changes inspired by the Kia EV5, which is currently on sale in global markets. Its front fascia will look refreshing with the revised grille and bumper and newly-designed LED headlamps. The new Seltos will also come with the redesigned alloy wheels, rear bumper and LED taillamps.
Reports suggest that the 2025 Kia Seltos will be the brand’s first vehicle in India to feature hybrid powertrain. It could be offered with the 1.6L hybrid setup delivering a claimed power of 141bhp. The hybrid powertrain might be offered with the AWD (all-wheel drive) system. The existing 1.5L petrol (115bhp/144Nm) and 1.5L turbo diesel (116bhp/250Nm) engines will also continue to be on offer. So as the transmissions including a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed iMT, a 6-speed automatic, and a CVT automatic unit.