The Indian automobile industry is experiencing a significant transformation. With fuel costs reaching new heights and environmental issues becoming a larger concern, both consumers and manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly vehicles. The compact SUV segment, already a hit for its practicality and aesthetics, is now starting to integrate hybrids and electrics into their lineup to provide sustainable options without compromising performance or price.
What are the compact SUVs to watch out for that are set to turn fully electric or hybrid in the next few years? Here is a list of five.
Mahindra XUV 3XO – One Petrol, Hybrid & Electric Versions Available
With the new XUV 3XO, which is a more advanced version of the outgoing XUV300, Mahindra is looking to compete in the compact SUV segment. And the new compact SUV will be available in not just one, but three options—petrol, hybrid, and electric.
Expected by mid-2025, the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV will be equipped with a 35kWh battery pack and it is expected to provide a reasonable driving range. Best suited for daily commutes and travel around the city.
XUV 3XO Hybrid (Expected 2026):
We expect the hybrid variant to utilise a 1.2L turbocharged petrol engine with a strong-hybrid electric motor, allowing for segment-beating fuel economy figures.
From the looks of it, Mahindra has placed high expectations on this model for spearheading its efforts to go green in the compact SUV vertical.
Hyundai Venue EV – The Budget-Friendly Urban EV
Hyundai is already well-known in the electric vehicle industry for their Kona Electric and Ioniq 5, and are working on an electric variant of the highly popular Venue compact SUV.
Venue EV (Expected by 2027):
Hyundai is targeting an entirely equipped electric Venue to those wishing to buy a compact, cost-effective EV specifically designed for urban commuting. The range is likely to precision focus on making it affordable, but without compromising too much on essential safety, range, and features—therefore, making it the ultimate electric vehicle for novice EV users.
Kia Syros EV – A Stylish & Competitive Newcomer
Kia is set to launch the Syros EV, their first entry into the electric compact SUV segment, and aims to deliver appealing design and performance.
Syros EV (Expected early 2026)
This SUV is expected to have a highway and city range of 450 km. For city driving, the Syros will leverage the tech and design Kia is known for alongside fighting for space with Tata Nexon EV.
Given Kia’s expanding focus in India alongside its synergies market the global synergies Kia has on EVs enable makes this a potential market spearhead.
Renault Kiger EV – Compact & Affordable Electric SUV
The bold compact Renault Kiger also is known to be on the affordable side of the spectrum. Now undertaking an electric version, this model has the potential to single-handedly change the perception towards entry level EVs.
Kiger EV (Expected by early 2027):
With a target price of under ₹15 lakh, the all electric Kiger will utilise a new EV-dedicated underpinning. The company’s efforts aim at making it cost-effective while providing ample range and features for a family-friendly vehicle.
With the growing trend of tier-2 and tier-3 city users looking to take the plunge into electric cars, this model could find instant recognition.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza Hybrid – One with Best Fuel Economy
Maruti Suzuki has added a new model in its roster, bred for Indian customers. It is equipped with Hybrid Technology; a first for one of the Brezza’s flagship SUV models.
Brezza Hybrid (Expected by 2029):
Expected to come out with Maruti’s Z-Series petrol engine, this version should include a Toyota-like strong hybrid integration. From this, we get an astonishing fuel economy figure of around 35 km/l, which would make this more than just a compact SUV, it would be one of the most economical compact SUVs in India.
This hybrid might be ideal for buyers who are looking for performance at a lower cost and with better mileage, but are not ready to go fully electric.
Why This Trend Matters
The shift towards hybrid and electric compact SUVs isn’t just a trend. It’s driven by real-world challenges:
High Cost of Fuel: There’s no indication that petrol or diesel prices will drop, making fuel-efficient options more necessary than ever.
Climate Concerns: With fuel-efficient cars at the forefront of public attention, more Indian buyers are concerned with the environment and want to buy cars that are able to do so.
Government Policies: Factors such as schemes FAME II, state government policies promoting EVs and hybrids are incentivising the use of electric and hybrid cars.
Better Technology: The advancement of battery technology and EV infrastructure in India improves renewably-powered vehicles and alleviates drivers’ worries about range and charging issues.
Final Thoughts
The next few years look bright for the Indian automobile industry. With the addition of hybrids, compact SUVs will be more convenient to the everyman, providing more options than ever for eco-conscious consumers. Whether you want to go fully electric or start with a hybrid, there will be models available for every budget.
If you are planning to buy a small SUV soon, it may be beneficial for you to put off your purchase for just a little longer. Waiting will allow you to buy a more stunning, user-friendly, and technologically advanced vehicle.