Upcoming Flex Fuel Cars You Need To Know About

As the world moves toward greener mobility, flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) are emerging as a smart alternative for drivers who want to reduce their fossil fuel use without switching entirely to electric. 

These cars can operate on varying blends of petrol and ethanol, such as E20 (20% ethanol), E85 (up to 85%), or even pure ethanol (E100) in select models. Since ethanol in India is mainly derived from sugarcane, it not only cuts emissions but also supports local farmers and reduces the country’s dependence on imported oil. 

The Indian government is strongly backing this shift through the National Policy on Biofuels, which aims to increase ethanol blending in petrol. The E20 target has already been met ahead of schedule in 2025, and there are plans to push this further to E30 and beyond. 

Update: Maruti Suzuki will reveal its first flex-fuel vehicle on June 5. However, it is still unclear whether the company will launch a passenger vehicle or a commercial vehicle, and official confirmation from Maruti Suzuki is still awaited.

If it turns out to be a passenger vehicle, the Fronx appears to be the most likely candidate, as the flex-fuel version has already been showcased at multiple auto expos. If commercial the Maruti Super Carry will likely get its first

“Vehicles with such flex-fuel engines are going to be introduced on a large scale soon,” said Nitin Gadkari. “On the occasion of Environment Day this year, there is a programme in Delhi where Maruti Suzuki will launch vehicles running 100% on ethanol.”

Update-BIS has laid down guidelines for blends upto E30, with ARAI suggestion more testing is needed for blends from E20 onwards you can read all about it here

Maruti Suzuki Fronx Flex Fuel

Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, is moving its flex fuel plans closer to reality with the upcoming Fronx Flex Fuel. First showcased as a concept at the Japan Mobility Show, the model is now widely expected to enter production and launch in India in 2026. Unlike earlier timelines that sounded tentative, the company has indicated that flex fuel models are part of its near term roadmap.

The Fronx Flex Fuel will use the familiar 1.2 litre K12 petrol engine, reworked to support ethanol blends ranging from E20 up to E85. Power output is expected to remain around 89 bhp and 113 Nm, similar to the standard petrol version, but with calibration changes to handle higher ethanol content. 

Also Read- Top 10 Best Mileage CNG Cars You Can Buy In 2026

Visually, there are unlikely to be major changes apart from specific flex fuel badging and possibly minor cosmetic identifiers. 

The overall styling and feature list should remain close to the regular Fronx. Pricing is expected to stay competitive, likely in the ₹9 to 10 lakh bracket depending on variant positioning, making it an accessible option for urban buyers who want a future ready alternative without moving to a full electric vehicle.

Tata Punch Flex Fuel

Tata Motors’ popular micro-SUV, the Punch, is getting an eco-upgrade with a flex-fuel variant showcased at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. Powered by the same 1.2-litre Revotron engine, it can run on E85 to E100 blends, delivering around 86 bhp and 115 Nm. 

The model retains its sturdy build, high ground clearance, and premium features like a 7-inch touchscreen and comprehensive safety package. Tata is expected to launch it post-2025, possibly alongside a facelift. Pricing will likely fall between ₹7–9 lakh.

Update- Tata Motors is preparing to introduce its first flex-fuel passenger vehicle in India by late 2026 or early 2027, aligning with the government’s ongoing push for increased ethanol blending in conventional fuels. The announcement was made by the company’s senior leadership during the Q4 post-earnings call on Thursday.

“By the end of this year or early next year, we should be ready with our flex fuel also, one product at least,” said Shailesh Chandr

We are pretty sure this vehicle could be Punch as its the best selling Tata car and already comes in CNG, Petrol and Turbo engine all based on a proven platform.
 

Mahindra XUV 3XO Flex Fuel

Mahindra, known for its robust SUVs, has entered the flex-fuel arena with the XUV 3XO prototype displayed at the 2025 Expo. The car uses a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine optimized for E30 and higher ethanol blends, producing 110 bhp and 200 Nm. 

This setup promises strong performance and cleaner emissions without altering the vehicle’s sleek look or feature-packed interior. While Mahindra hasn’t confirmed a launch date, it’s expected as part of the company’s sustainability push. 

Hyundai Creta Flex Fuel

The Hyundai Creta, one of India’s top-selling mid-size SUVs, was also showcased in a flex-fuel avatar at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. Equipped with a 1.0-litre turbo engine tuned for E0 to E100 blends, it maintains its familiar 113 bhp and 144 Nm performance.  You can read our review of regular Creta here

The car keeps all its premium touches large infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety features while gaining greener credentials. 

Maruti Suzuki WagonR Flex Fuel

The dependable WagonR, a household name for daily commuters, is slated for a flex-fuel update by late 2026. Its 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre engines will be compatible with E85 blends, producing between 67 and 89 bhp with improved efficiency. 

The tall-boy design, spacious cabin, and low maintenance costs remain key highlights.

Toyota Innova Hycross Flex Fuel

Toyota’s Innova Hycross flex-fuel prototype deserves a special mention. First unveiled in 2023 by Minister Nitin Gadkari as the world’s first BS6 Stage II electrified FFV, it combines hybrid technology with ethanol compatibility up to E85. 

The setup allows 40–60% operation in EV mode, significantly cutting fuel use and emissions.

Also Read- Toyota Innova Crysta Diesel To Be Discontinued By 2027

It was displayed again at the 2025 Expo, hinting at a potential production version soon. With an expected price range of ₹20–25 lakh, it offers space, comfort, and sustainability in one package perfect for large families and fleet owners