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. 

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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. 

Automakers showcased several flex-fuel prototypes at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, suggesting that production models could arrive soon after. Here’s a look at the most anticipated flex-fuel cars likely to hit Indian roads soon.

Update- Maruti Suzuki is accelerating its flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) timeline, with plans to launch its first commercial flex-fuel car in India by March 2026. This initiative is driven by the Indian government's aggressive push for E20 , and eventually E85, ethanol-blended fuel to reduce carbon emissions and oil imports

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. The focus is on reducing tailpipe emissions and supporting India’s ethanol blending targets rather than boosting outright performance.

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.

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. 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.

 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