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South Korean sister brands Hyundai and Kia to strengthen their presence in India’s popular compact SUV segment with new ICE and electric models next year
India’s ever-expanding compact SUV segment is expected to grow further in the coming years with the major GST reductions introduced in September. Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) recently launched the second-generation Hyundai Venue last month, and next year, it will introduce three new compact SUVs, including one electric model from the Kia brand.
The Kia Syros EV will be HMG’s first new compact SUV to arrive in Indian showrooms next year. Expected to be launched sometime between April and June, the pure electric variant of Kia’s quirky compact SUV should feature a covered grille area with active air flaps that automatically open and close as per the cooling needs of the vehicle’s components to reduce drag and improve range.
The charging port of the Kia Syros EV will be located above its left-side front wheel arch. Spy shots have shown the Kia Syros EV featuring the same 17-inch alloy wheels as its ICE donor, but along with neon green brake callipers. The latter suggests it could be offered in a sporty GT-Line grade. There’s no word on the specifications, but two LFP battery packs featuring cells sourced locally from Exide Energy are expected.
Also Read: Kia’s First Hybrid Car Launching In India In 2026
Also expected to go on sale in the second quarter of 2026 is a facelifted version of the Hyundai Exter. The updated model should feature redesigned grilles, revised bumpers, new 16-inch alloy wheels, and tweaked headlamps and tail lamps. Inside, it may have a few new comfort and convenience features and a new colour scheme. No mechanical changes are expected with the mid-cycle refresh in the micro-SUV, which will compete with the facelifted Tata Punch expected to be launched in January.
In the third quarter, the Hyundai Bayon will be launched in India as a Maruti Fronx rival. Our market will directly get the upcoming second-generation model, which will be based on the same platform as the fourth-generation Hyundai i20. The latest compact crossover will debut a 1.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which will also be seen in hybrid models at a later stage.
Also Read: Hyundai i10 & Aura Based Taxi Versions Launched From Rs. 5.99 Lakh
The next-gen Hyundai Bayon will be manufactured alongside the latest Hyundai Venue in Talegaon, Maharashtra. It could be priced around 7.10 lakh rupees (ex-showroom) in the base trim.
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