Quick Glance – What You Need to Know
- Skoda and Volkswagen are expected to bring strong hybrid SUVs and sedans in India by 2028.
- These models will sit on a localised India-specific platform (IMP21) designed for hybrid, ICE, and EV tech.
- The move is part of a strategy to meet India’s CAFE 3 fuel-efficiency norms.
- These hybrids will go up against future models from Hyundai, Kia, Renault, Nissan, and existing ones from Maruti, Toyota, and Honda.
Intro: A Move That’s Late, But Not Too Late
Let’s be real — when it comes to hybrids, Skoda and Volkswagen have been quiet for way too long in India. While brands like Maruti and Toyota have been grabbing the early mover advantage, the two European giants sat back and watched the hybrid wave build. But now, that’s about to change — and in a big way.
By 2028, both carmakers are finally jumping in with strong hybrid models for India’s midsize SUV and sedan segments. Yes, it’s a late entry, but they’re not showing up empty-handed.
A New Platform. A Whole New Strategy.
The upcoming hybrid models from Skoda and VW won’t just be retrofitted petrol cars. They’re being built from the ground up on a brand-new platform called IMP21 (India Main Platform). Think of it as the Indian cousin of their China Main Platform (CMP), only with a desi twist — lower costs, local suppliers, and tech tailored to Indian roads and regulations And that naturally boosts the product’s viability in the Indian market!
What’s more exciting? This platform isn’t just for hybrids. It’s flexible enough to support ICE engines, strong hybrids, and even EVs, depending on how the market evolves. So, these brands are setting themselves up for long-term flexibility, not just a quick hybrid detour.
A Crowded Playground
Make no mistake — the competition is heating up. By 2028, almost every mainstream brand in India will have hybrid SUVs in showrooms.
The Hyundai Creta is getting a hybrid. Kia Seltos too. Then there’s the return of the Renault Duster, a new Nissan SUV, and of course, the already popular Grand Vitara and Hyryder.
In the sedan space, the Honda City e:HEV is still the only real contender — and that’s exactly where Skoda and VW’s hybrid sedans could swoop in and shake things up.
What will help them stand out? The European driving feel, high-quality interiors, and possibly competitive pricing thanks to localisation. If they get this right, they could disrupt the hybrid space just like they once did with the Rapid and Vento.
Why Now? Because India Is Changing Fast
There’s a bigger picture here. India is shifting gears — not yet ready for full electric, but definitely hungry for better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and cars that don’t rely on a charging socket.
Add to that the CAFE 3 norms, which force automakers to make their lineups more efficient, and you have the perfect storm pushing brands toward hybrids.
For Skoda and VW, this isn’t just about catching up. It’s about future-proofing their lineup for a fast-evolving Indian buyer — someone who wants performance and practicality.
What’s Coming — And Who’s Playing
| Brand | Arrival | Segment | Model(s) | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skoda | 2028 | SUV, Sedan | TBA | IMP21 |
| Volkswagen | 2028 | SUV, Sedan | TBA | IMP21 |
| Hyundai | 2027 | Midsize SUV | 3rd-gen Creta Hybrid | Hybridised 1.5L |
| Kia | 2027 | Midsize SUV | 2nd-gen Seltos Hybrid | Shared with Creta |
| Renault-Nissan | 2026–27 | Midsize SUV | New Duster, Nissan SUV | Global Hybrid Setup |
| Maruti Suzuki | Available | Midsize SUV | Grand Vitara | Toyota Hybrid Tech |
| Toyota | Available | Midsize SUV | Urban Cruiser Hyryder | TNGA Hybrid |
| Honda | Available | Sedan | City e:HEV | i-MMD Hybrid System |
Conclusion: Late to the Party, But Ready to Dance
Skoda and Volkswagen might be arriving a few years after everyone else, but sometimes, the ones who show up late are the ones who’ve done their homework. With a smart, India-focused platform and a sharp eye on the competition, they’re not just entering the hybrid game — they’re planning to make an impact.
In a market where fuel costs pinch every pocket and electric vehicles still raise eyebrows, hybrids are the sweet spot. And if Skoda and VW play their cards right, we may be looking at two new segment leaders in the making.
So buckle up — because by 2028, the hybrid war will be in full swing, and the roads might just have a few more VAG-badged warriors cruising with purpose.