Khyati Sharma 2026-09-02
Hyundai car is preparing to expand its SUV portfolio in India with a new midsize SUV, and the upcoming model has once again been spotted testing on Indian roads. The latest spy shots provide the clearest look yet at the SUV’s exterior design ahead of its expected launch during the festive season.
The new SUV is based on Hyundai’s global Bayon, but the India-spec version is expected to receive significant styling changes. It will be positioned below the Creta in Hyundai’s lineup while measuring more than four metres in length.
The latest test vehicle continues to wear camouflage, but several design elements are now visible. The SUV appears to feature a crossover-inspired stance with sharp LED lighting elements at the front.
The front-end design is expected to feature split lighting, with slim LED daytime running lights positioned above the main headlamp units. This lighting arrangement follows Hyundai’s recent design direction and gives the SUV a more modern appearance.
The side profile is expected to retain some inspiration from the international Bayon, although the Indian model gets a different body design. Earlier sightings also revealed prominent body cladding, roof rails and distinctive alloy wheels.
The upcoming Hyundai SUV is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. According to the latest report, Hyundai could offer the engine with both manual and CVT automatic transmission options.
A CNG powertrain is also expected to be part of the lineup. If introduced as reported, the SUV could become Hyundai’s first model above four metres in length to offer factory-fitted CNG technology.
Earlier reports had suggested a possible 1.2-litre turbo-petrol hybrid setup for the project, but the latest information points towards a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine for the India-spec model. Therefore, the final powertrain specifications will need to be confirmed by Hyundai.
The new SUV will strengthen Hyundai’s presence in the increasingly competitive midsize SUV segment. It is expected to sit below the Creta while offering Hyundai another product in the 4-metre-plus SUV category.
The model could compete with other popular midsize SUVs and give Hyundai an additional product to challenge manufacturers with multiple offerings in this segment.
| Details | Expected Information |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Body Type | SUV |
| Positioning | Below Hyundai Creta |
| Platform/Origin | Bayon-based |
| Expected Length | Over 4 metres |
| Engine | 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol |
| CNG Option | Expected |
| Transmission | Manual and CVT |
| Design | Crossover-inspired |
| Front Lighting | Split LED setup expected |
| Expected Launch | Festive season 2026 |
| India Market | Yes |
The SUV is expected to measure around 4.18 metres, placing it alongside the Creta rather than in the sub-4-metre category. Hyundai’s product strategy indicates that the new model could help the company strengthen its position in the growing midsize SUV market.
The latest spy-shot report suggests that Hyundai could introduce the new SUV around the 2026 festive season. However, Hyundai has not yet announced the official launch date, name, variant lineup or pricing.
With the vehicle continuing testing in India, more information about its interior, features, dimensions and powertrain is expected to emerge closer to the launch.
The upcoming Hyundai SUV is shaping up as an important addition to the company’s Indian lineup. Its larger-than-four-metre dimensions, modern styling, petrol engine, automatic transmission option and expected CNG variant could make it a strong contender in the midsize SUV space.
For now, the official name, exact specifications, features, prices and launch date remain unconfirmed. Hyundai is expected to reveal more details as the SUV moves closer to production and launch
