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Hyundai has confirmed an unusually large product programme for India, with 26 launches and refreshes planned by 2030. Before that programme unfolds, three SUVs deserve immediate attention: a new second-generation Bayon-based model, the HE1i compact EV and the third-generation Creta.

The company is also increasing manufacturing capacity by 3.20 lakh units by 2030. Hyundai currently has annual capacity of around 11 lakh units and plans to export roughly 30 percent of local production by the end of the decade.

Local content is targeted to reach 90 percent by 2030, supported by more than 1,400 suppliers and over 900 engineers.

The 26-product number includes new models and updates, so it should not be read as 26 completely new nameplates. The first few launches give a better idea of where Hyundai is putting its money.

The most immediate new model is the SUV codenamed Bc4i. It will be based on the upcoming second-generation Bayon.

It is expected around October 2026 and will sit below the Creta, and above the Venue. Reports put its length at roughly 4.18 metres, making it larger than a conventional sub-four-metre SUV. Expected prices are around Rs 8 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.

The model is expected to introduce a new 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, while a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol is also possible. CNG has been reported as another likely powertrain option.

Its styling is expected to be more upright than the first-generation Bayon sold overseas. The first-generation leaned more towards the crossover side with its styling.

It gives Hyundai another product between its smaller SUVs and the Creta, taking on cars such as the Maruti Fronx and other compact crossovers.

Next is the compact electric SUV codenamed HE1i. Hyundai has confirmed a new electric SUV for the fourth quarter of 2026, while the HE1i is expected to reach showrooms by the end of financial year 2026-27.

The model is expected to measure under four metres and sit well below the Creta Electric. That is important because Hyundai’s current EV entry point remains relatively expensive for a mass-market electric car. The company hasn’t revealed the battery specifications officially, yet. However, speculations point to 42kWh and 49kWh- same as the recently-launched Kia Syros EV.

Industry reports suggest a starting price around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 12 lakh would be possible, putting it against compact electric SUVs such as the Tata Punch EV. The final price will depend heavily on battery size and localisation.

Hyundai has been working to source more EV components locally, and the HE1i is expected to use locally sourced battery cells from Exide’s battery venture.

If priced correctly, this could become Hyundai’s first serious volume electric model.

Image source: NYMammoth

The third model is the one with the biggest sales responsibility. Hyundai is developing the third-generation Creta, codenamed SX3, for a 2027 launch. According to reports, it could launch sometime around March next year.

The new Creta is expected to move to the newer K3 platform, shared with the latest Kia Seltos and could therefore, grow in size.

The existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are expected to continue. More importantly, a 1.5-litre petrol strong hybrid is also under development.

That would give the Creta four powertrain choices and a direct answer to hybrid rivals such as the Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, and the new Renault Duster (deliveries of hybrid variants of which are yet to commence).

The Creta Electric is also expected to receive its own update sometime in the future.

These three SUVs show why Hyundai’s 26-product announcement is more than a distant 2030 promise.

One fills a gap below the Creta, another takes Hyundai into lower-priced (and high-volume) EVs, and the third replaces one of the company’s most important models. Details of the other products/ refreshes are yet to emerge.

The launch blitz begins well before 2030.