Hyundai is testing new SUVs in India to expand its market. Three models have been spotted: a small electric SUV for budget buyers, a refreshed Exter micro SUV and the next-gen Creta midsize SUV.
The EV may launch in 2026–27, the Exter facelift could arrive soon and the Creta is set for 2027. These moves show Hyundai’s push for electric power, new designs and advanced features to meet India’s rising demand for eco-friendly, tech-loaded cars.
New Hyundai Compact Electric SUV: Neat and Practical Design
Hyundai’s compact electric SUV looks tough yet practical it has a tall, boxy shape with wide wheel arches, sleek LED lights, hidden door handles, roof rails, a shark-fin antenna and a flat tailgate with cladding. The headlights sit low and the rear has vertical reflectors, base models may use steel wheels while higher trims get 15- or 16-inch alloys, a black roof spoiler with a stop lamp adds sportiness, at under 4 meters its short overhangs make it easy to drive in busy city streets while keeping a stylish look.
Learn More: December SUV Surge: 4 Hot Launches Explained – Power, Green and Family Wins for India
2026 Hyundai Exter Facelift: Updated and Refined Styling
The Exter facelift keeps its small SUV look with minor changes. Camouflage hides updates like a new grille, revised bumper and the same H-shaped DRLs with unchanged headlamps, the rear gets a new tailgate, rectangular tail lamps and a tweaked bumper. Alloy wheels may have a new design while roof rails and cladding keep the crossover style.
The shape remains familiar with small cosmetic updates to stay fresh against rivals.
Next-Gen Hyundai Creta: Boxier and Bolder Presence
The third-generation Creta changes its look to a more boxy and angular design moving away from the rounded style of the current model. Spy shots show a taller front, sharply slanted windscreen, squared wheel arches and bigger size thanks to the new K3 platform.
It comes with 18-inch wheels, short overhangs for more cabin space, a large roof spoiler and a sloping roofline. The side view has sharp glasshouse lines inspired by the new Kia Seltos and the alloys look similar to those seen on mid-level variants.
Learn More: Compact SUV Showdown: 2026 Kia Seltos vs. Nissan Kicks – Style, Space, and Smarts Face Off
Expected Prices in India
| Model/Vehicle | Estimated Price Range (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| New Compact Electric SUV | Rs 10-15 lakh |
| Exter Facelift | Rs 6-10 lakh |
| Next-Gen Creta | Rs 12-24 lakh |
| Bihar-Specific Costs | Add Rs 50,000-1 lakh |
| EMI Estimate | Starting at Rs 15,000/month |
Compared to Rivals:
- Tata Punch EV: Rs 10-14 lakh
- Maruti Suzuki Fronx: Rs 7.5-13 lakh
- Kia Seltos: Rs 11-20 lakh
Learn More: 2026 Mahindra XUV 7XO – Fresh Face and Tech for Big Families
Key Specs: Battery, Range, and Power
New Compact Electric SUV
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery | Not specified (localized EV platform) |
| Range | Suitable for highway use (estimated 300-400 km) |
| Power | Electric motor (details TBD) |
| Top Speed | TBD |
| 0-100 km/h | TBD |
| Charging Time | Home AC (removable battery possible) |
| Weight | Compact, under 4m length |
| Suspension | Front MacPherson strut, rear torsion beam (expected) |
| Brakes | Discs front/rear with regen |
| Wheels | 15-16 inch alloys/steel |
2026 Hyundai Exter Facelift
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L NA petrol (82 hp, 114 Nm) |
| Range | Petrol: ~18 kmpl, CNG: ~27 km/kg |
| Power | 82 hp |
| Torque | 114 Nm |
| Top Speed | ~150 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | ~12 seconds |
| Transmission | 5MT or AMT |
| Weight | ~950 kg |
| Suspension | Front MacPherson, rear coupled torsion beam |
| Brakes | Front disc, rear drum |
| Wheels | 15-inch alloys |
Next-Gen Hyundai Creta
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L NA petrol (115 hp), 1.5L diesel (116 hp), 1.5L turbo-petrol (160 hp), strong hybrid |
| Range | Petrol: ~17 kmpl, Diesel: ~20 kmpl, Hybrid: ~25 kmpl |
| Power | Up to 160 hp |
| Torque | Up to 253 Nm (turbo) |
| Top Speed | ~180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | ~9 seconds (turbo) |
| Transmission | 6MT, CVT, 6AT, 7DCT |
| Weight | ~1,300-1,400 kg |
| Suspension | Front MacPherson, rear multi-link (expected) |
| Brakes | All-disc |
| Wheels | Up to 18-inch alloys |
Key Features: Tech and Daily Ease
- Compact EV SUV: Large touchscreen (10+ inches), digital cluster, Level 2 ADAS, flush handles, LED lights, roof rails for versatility.
- Exter Facelift: Larger infotainment, updated cluster, dual-pane sunroof, new upholstery, armrest, safety with 6 airbags, ESC, hill assist.
- Next-Gen Creta: Advanced connectivity, ADAS suite, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, 360-camera, hybrid for efficiency, AWD possible in top trims.
Comparison with Rivals: How They Fit In
| SUV | Price (Rs) | Range/ Mileage | Top Speed (km/h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Compact EV | 10-15 lakh | 300-400 km | TBD |
| Hyundai Exter Facelift | 6-10 lakh | 18-27 kmpl/kg | 150 |
| Next-Gen Hyundai Creta | 12-24 lakh | 17-25 kmpl | 180 |
| Tata Punch EV | 10-14 lakh | 300 km | 140 |
| Maruti Fronx | 7.5-13 lakh | 20 kmpl | 160 |
| Kia Seltos | 11-20 lakh | 18 kmpl | 170 |
Final Verdict: Why These Hyundai Spottings Signal Exciting Times
In January 2026, Hyundai tested new SUVs in Mumbai and Tamil Nadu. The compact EV will offer an affordable electric option, the facelifted Exter will refresh the micro SUV space and the redesigned Creta will strengthen Hyundai’s midsize lineup. From mid-2026 onward, these launches will give city drivers more eco-friendly, safe and tech-rich choices.
