Showcased at the 2014 Beijing Auto Show held earlier this year, the Hyundai ix25 is the South Korean car maker’s answer to compact SUVs around the world. The ix25 shown in Beijing was in its concept guise, while the production spec model will see the launch in China in October this year. Hyundai India however, confirmed that the ix25 is part of the company’s plans and will be launched in 2015 in the country.
The Hyundai ix25 measures 4270 mm in length, 1780 mm in width and 1630 mm in height while the wheelbase is 2590 mm for the China spec version. In India though, the length could be be toned down to meet the sub 4-metre excise benefits. The model retains the fluidic sculpture styling seen on the Santa Fe, but gets more matured lines for a rather understated yet dominating look. Hyundai has also given special attention to improving the overall quality and finish on the new compact SUV and it surely won’t be disappointing.
The Hyundai ix25 will be launched in China with a 2.0-litre Nu engine, whereas the Indian spec model is most likely to be powered by the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.4-litre diesel engine options. The compact SUV will be packed with goodies from the next generation i20 that will be launched later this year. True to how Hyundai operates, expect spot on pricing (introductory) from the company that will surely undercut the competition when launched.
The Hyundai ix25 will be positioned in a very competitive segment rivalling against the very popular Ford EcoSport, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano, followed by the upcoming brigade comprising of the Mahindra S101 compact SUV and the Volkswagen Taigun. The compact SUV segment is very popular across the Asian markets and Hyundai is looking forward to capture volumes from its competitors on arrival. A launch date has not been confirmed though for the ix25.
