Hyundai’s iteration of a compact SUV will soon be showcased at the Beijing Auto Show in the form of the ix25. Ahead of the official launch later this month, the interior images of the compact SUV managed to leak out, with very little left to imagination. The ix25 actually looks like a smaller Santa Fe from most angles. The front fascia exhibits the same characteristics as the Santa Fe with the bold grille, headlight design with a modern and urban appeal.
Coming to the interiors, the Santa Fe inspiration is quite evident on the steering wheel and the centre console. The centre console features a drop down approach with the vertically designed air-con vents, while the music system unit is housed between the vents. The images also show the automatic climate control with the controls positioned below the music system. The centre console gets generous amounts of brushed aluminium accents across the air-con vents and the gear knob, which add a premium feel to the cabin. The 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel looks sporty and certainly looks premium.
The Hyundai ix25 compact SUV will feature a host of gadgetry including keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth telephony, airbags, ABS, ESP along with several other creature comforts and safety equipment. Coming to the powertrain, the ix25 is most likely to feature the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre engines for the Chinese market, mated to 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions. The SUV is also expected to sport two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive variants as well. The ix25 shares its underpinnings with the next generation i20 hatchback.
The ix25 is a crucial model for Hyundai not only in China, but in other markets as well. The compact SUV will also be sold across Europe, competing against the Ford EcoSport, Honda Vezel, Dacia Duster and the Nissan Juke. Measuring 4.25 metres in length, the ix25 will not qualify for the sub-4 metre excise benefit in India. The SUV’s major competition will be the Nissan Terrano and the Renault Duster in the premium compact SUV segment in the country. While details about the Indian debut are very scarce, Hyundai is expected to launch the ix25 only next year.
Source – Auto Sohu
