Hyundai unveils next-gen hybrid system with big gains in power, efficiency, and comfort

Hyundai Motor Group has revealed its next-generation hybrid powertrain system, setting the stage for a new era of fuel-efficient and high-performance vehicles. Introduced at the Group’s ‘Next-Gen Hybrid System Tech Day,’ the new hybrid setup brings major upgrades in power, refinement, and driving technology, offering a more advanced experience for future Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles.

At the core of the system is a newly developed transmission that includes two electric motors:

P1 Motor – handles engine starting, battery charging, and assists with propulsion.
P2 Motor – takes care of driving the wheels and regenerative braking.

This dual-motor design results in better performance, smoother gear changes, and improved fuel economy, all while reducing engine noise and vibration.

The system can be paired with a wide range of internal combustion engines, delivering total power outputs from just over 100 PS to more than 330 PS—allowing it to be used in compact cars, large SUVs, and even premium models.

The first vehicle to feature this new hybrid system is the all-new Hyundai PALISADE Hybrid, powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine. Key figures include:

System output: 334 PS
Torque: 460 Nm
Fuel efficiency: 14.1 km/l

Compared to the standard 2.5 turbo petrol engine, the hybrid setup delivers 45% better fuel economy, 19% more power, and 9% more torque.

A smaller 1.6-litre turbo hybrid variant is also being developed. In a mid-size SUV application, it improves fuel efficiency by over 4%, boosts torque from 367 Nm to 380 Nm, and offers quicker throttle response.

The system takes several cues from Hyundai’s EV lineup by adding convenience and smart efficiency tools:

Stay Mode – allows air-conditioning and media use while parked without starting the engine, powered by the hybrid battery.
V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) – lets users power devices like laptops or appliances, with up to 3.6 kW of output.
Smart Regenerative Braking – adjusts braking strength automatically using navigation data and traffic conditions.
Hierarchical Predictive Control (HPC) – predicts road conditions and selects the most efficient driving mode to save fuel.

A key highlight of the new system is its improved shifting feel, thanks to integration with Hyundai’s Active Shift Control (ASC). This allows faster gear changes and smoother transitions between electric and engine drive. The P1 motor also helps start the engine more quickly and reduces vibrations during charging.

The combustion engines themselves have also been redesigned. The 2.5-litre turbo uses an “over-expansion cycle” to improve thermal efficiency and features upgraded pistons and triple fuel injection for more stable combustion and less knocking.

Hyundai also introduced a suite of electrification-focused systems to enhance handling, safety, and ride comfort:

e-AWD – adds an electric motor to the rear axle for better traction and acceleration.
e-VMC 2.0 – controls torque independently between front and rear motors for improved stability.
e-Handling 2.0 – reduces body roll during cornering.
e-EHA 2.0 – supports emergency steering maneuvers using motor torque control.
e-Ride 2.0 – smooths out motion over speed bumps using smart torque management.

These features combine to make hybrid models not only more efficient, but also more dynamic and comfortable to drive.

Hyundai Motor Group plans to grow its hybrid offerings from three to five models in the near term. The new hybrid system will be rolled out across Hyundai and Kia vehicles, with a rear-wheel-drive 2.5 turbo hybrid version scheduled for release in 2026. Eventually, the tech will also reach Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand.

All future hybrid models from the Group will incorporate this next-gen hybrid powertrain, with adaptations made based on vehicle size, market, and customer needs.