As hybrid technology gains momentum in India, major carmakers are stepping up their game. In the first half of 2025, hybrid car sales surged past electric vehicles, crossing the 52,000-unit mark with a 62.5% growth. Toyota currently dominates this space with offerings like the Innova Hycross and Urban Cruiser Hyryder, holding over 81% of the strong hybrid market. However, this could soon change as Maruti Suzuki and Mahindra prepare to enter the compact hybrid SUV segment in 2026.
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1. Maruti Fronx Hybrid – Debut of In-House Strong Hybrid Tech
Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to launch its first strong hybrid compact SUV in the form of the Fronx Hybrid. This model will showcase Maruti’s newly developed series hybrid powertrain, designed specifically for mass-market affordability.
Powertrain Details:
The Fronx Hybrid will likely use the upcoming Z12E 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol engine, which will function as a generator. This setup will power a battery pack (estimated between 1.5kWh and 2kWh), while an electric motor will deliver power to the front wheels — a typical series hybrid configuration.
Design & Features:
Visually, the hybrid version of the Fronx will resemble its ICE counterpart, with the addition of hybrid badging and possibly subtle cabin enhancements. The strong hybrid variant is expected to be offered only in higher trims and could carry a price premium of ₹2 – ₹2.5 lakh over the regular petrol models.
Future Plans:
Following the Fronx, Maruti is expected to introduce the same hybrid tech in the next-gen Baleno and a new sub-4 metre MPV in 2026.
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2. Mahindra XUV 3XO Hybrid – First Hybrid SUV from Mahindra
Mahindra & Mahindra is also venturing into hybrid territory with plans to offer both strong hybrid and range-extender models. The upcoming XUV 3XO Hybrid is expected to be the brand’s first step in this direction.
Expected Configuration:
The hybrid version of the XUV 3XO may use Mahindra’s 1.2L turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a strong hybrid system. This setup will likely follow a series-hybrid layout for ICE-powered models.
Broader Strategy:
Mahindra’s future electric vehicles (BEVs) could adopt a range-extender system, where a small petrol engine acts solely as a generator to recharge the battery while the vehicle runs on electric power.
Launch Timeline:
The Mahindra XUV 3XO Hybrid is expected to launch sometime in 2026, adding a fuel-efficient and performance-focused option to the compact SUV lineup.
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Conclusion
As fuel efficiency and eco-consciousness drive consumer choices, Maruti and Mahindra are preparing to offer accessible hybrid SUVs that could shake up Toyota’s dominance. With the Fronx Hybrid and XUV 3XO Hybrid set for 2026, buyers will soon have more choices in the compact hybrid SUV segment — combining affordability with technology-driven performance.