After tasting success in the mid-SUV segment with Creta, Hyundai is all set to enter the entry level sub 4 meter SUV segment. This new SUV is codenamed QXi as of today, and is the production variant of Carlino Concept showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo in India.
Spied on test at the Sriperumbudur, just a few kms away from the Hyundai India plant in Chennai, the compact SUV will rival the likes of Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza in India. Apart from India, the SUV will also be launched in global markets (including US and Europe). India is expected to be a export hub.
As seen from the spy shots, this new small SUV from Hyundai has borrowed design elements from both the Creta and Kona. It will be positioned on a new platform and be seen with a twin headlamp setup called ‘Composite Light’, a large cascading front grille. Side design replicates that of Creta, and so does the rear.
No interior designs or engine specifications have been detailed yet but once can expect latest tech to be on offer. A touchscreen infotainment system with parking assist, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, automatic AC, steering mounted controls, sunroof, leather seats, and so on.
Hyundai SUV could get its power via a 1.0 liter T-GDi turbocharged petrol engine and an all new 1.5 liter diesel engine. The 1.0 liter turbo engine is already on offer with i20 in certain countries. It delivers 120 PS. The diesel engine specs too are expected to be in the 115 PS / 250 Nm range – thereby making it among the most powerful compact SUVs in India. Both these engines will comply with BS6 emission norms.
New Hyundai SUV will launch in India sometime in mid 2019. Here it is expected to be priced between Rs 7-10 lakhs. Along with the compact SUV, Hyundai has also started testing the new gen Grand i10 for India.
