Mahindra and Renault unveil hybrid SUV plans for India

Mahindra & Mahindra is testing a heavily camouflaged prototype of its XUV 7XO SUV, which is expected to become the company’s first strong‑hybrid model. The hybrid version could use a series‑parallel powertrain similar to those in the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, with launch targeted for 2027‑2028. The XUV 7XO hybrid would retain the standard SUV’s silhouette while adding fuel‑saving technology and a suite of premium features.

Renault announced its own hybrid strategy for the Indian market, planning to launch two hybrid SUVs. The first, the Renault Duster Hybrid, will pair a 1.8‑litre petrol engine with a 49‑bhp electric motor and a 1.4 kWh battery, delivering a combined output of about 160 bhp. A three‑row, seven‑seat SUV based on the Duster platform is slated for a 2027 release. Both models are designed to run in electric mode for most city driving and to use the petrol engine for higher‑speed cruising.