Hyundai Creta Hybrid Rumors, Harrier EV Launch Confirmed & More: India Auto Buzz May 2025

May 2025 has ushered in a flurry of updates in the Indian automotive scene, with electrification, hybrid innovations, and global trade dynamics driving significant industry changes. From the Hyundai Creta’s potential hybrid upgrade to the confirmed launch date of the Tata Harrier EV, here’s a quick roundup of what auto enthusiasts and buyers should keep an eye on this month.

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1. Hyundai Creta May Go Hybrid – A Game-Changer in the Compact SUV Market?

Hyundai is reportedly mulling over a hybrid version of the Creta, responding to the growing demand for fuel-efficient and eco-friendly mobility solutions. This initiative is part of Hyundai’s larger electrification strategy in India.

While specifics are still under wraps, insiders suggest that the hybrid Creta could come equipped with either a mild-hybrid or strong-hybrid system, positioning it against other hybrid SUVs already making waves in the market.

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2. Tata Harrier EV Launch Date Confirmed – Coming in December 2025

Tata Motors has officially announced that the eagerly awaited Harrier EV will hit the market in December 2025. This all-electric variant of Tata’s popular mid-size SUV will be built on the Gen 2 EV architecture, boasting an expected range of 500–550 km.

The Harrier EV is set to spice up the competition in its segment, taking on established electric SUVs while also challenging new models from rival manufacturers.

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3. Hyundai Creta EV Struggles in Sales

Despite the success of the ICE (internal combustion engine) version, the Hyundai Creta EV hasn’t quite made the splash expected in the market. The limited charging infrastructure and a relatively high price point have hampered its appeal.

Industry experts anticipate that deep discounts or price adjustments may be on the horizon to stimulate sales, especially as other brands roll out competitive offerings.

The Hyundai Creta is still the king of the compact SUV market, even as its electric version faces some challenges. In April 2025, it held onto its top position with impressive sales that left competitors in the dust, including other popular compact SUVs.

This strong performance highlights what makes the Creta so appealing—its stylish design, a wealth of features, and a variety of powertrain options, especially the much-loved turbo-petrol and diesel models.

On another note, the ongoing discussions around the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could shake things up in the luxury SUV market. If the deal goes through, it might mean lower import taxes on high-end British cars, making those premium SUVs more affordable for Indian consumers and potentially changing the landscape of the luxury segment.

Looking ahead, the updates from May 2025 reveal a clear direction: India is ramping up its transition to electric and hybrid vehicles, while established favorites like the Hyundai Creta continue to perform well. Tata is making waves in the EV sector with the Harrier EV, and Hyundai seems ready to embrace hybrid technology, signaling that automakers are gearing up for the next chapter in the automotive world.