Hyundai may be preparing for a major shift in its mainstream lineup, with hybrids possibly becoming the default choice for many of its future models.
Toyota has already moved several important vehicles away from traditional gasoline engines, offering models such as the Camry, Land Cruiser, RAV4, Sequoia, and Sienna exclusively with hybrid powertrains in some markets. That strategy appears to be working well, and Hyundai seems to be paying close attention.
According to statements shared with the press, Hyundai Australia CEO Gavin Donaldson said the company is considering making its mainstream cars more hybrid focused. He described the move from pure internal combustion engines toward hybrids and electric vehicles as an inevitable step, especially as the industry continues to change.
Until now, Hyundai has followed a broader powertrain strategy than Toyota. The brand has invested heavily in electric vehicles while still offering hybrids, plug in hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and regular gasoline engines. However, these latest comments suggest Hyundai may be looking more seriously at reducing the role of ICE only models in its lineup.
Donaldson also noted that Hyundai still has some models powered only by gasoline engines, and unless there is a suitable alternative, the company must decide carefully which vehicles should remain part of the range.
For now, Hyundai does not offer any hybrid only models. Still, its lineup is already moving in that direction, with only a small number of vehicles sold strictly with internal combustion engines, including the Kona, Elantra N, Santa Cruz, and Venue.
Keeping smaller and more affordable models with gasoline engines may continue to make sense because of pricing. But larger vehicles such as the Sonata, Santa Fe, and Palisade could be stronger candidates for a hybrid only approach, especially as buyers look for better fuel economy without giving up the familiar driving experience of a gasoline car.
In simple terms, hybrids offer much of what drivers already know from traditional gasoline vehicles, but with improved efficiency and often stronger performance. Pure gasoline engines may still have a place in performance cars, heavy duty trucks, and budget focused models, but for many mainstream vehicles, Hyundai may soon find that hybrid power is the more logical answer.
