Hyundai Russia has updated the Verna sedan (Solaris in Russia) with cosmetic changes to the exteriors for the 2015 model year. The updated Solaris takes inspiration from the all new Sonata and Genesis models for a fresher and a more mature appeal, while the interiors remains the same. The Solaris has also received an escalation in prices and now starts at 4,73,000 Rubles going up to 5,74,000 Rubles (Rs. 8.26 lakhs to Rs. 10.02 lakhs) in Russia.
While the current generation Hyundai Verna is certainly a looker, the car is ageing slowly and surely. Changes on the updated model include larger headlights that have been inspired from the 2015 Sonata, while the single slat chrome grille has been replaced by a twin-slat unit that seems to be in a more upright position. The front bumper has also been redesigned and gets newly designed fog lamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, while the air duct gets a bit wider.
Changes to the rear on the other hand are minimal with the tail lights retaining the same design. The rear bumper on the other hand gets redesigned reflectors and a black under lip has also been added to the car. The interior of the sedan has not been touched and is the same as the current model. In terms of powertrain, the Hyundai Solaris gets the same 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines also available in India, with no changes to the specifications.
However, Hyundai has updated the 1.6-litre petrol motor with a new 6-speed automatic transmission along with the 5-speed manual gearbox variant. The Indian version though comes with the choice of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission. A very popular model for Hyundai in Russia, the Solaris is available in sedan and hatchback body-styles in the country and the company sold over 1.13 lakh units of the vehicle in the country in 2013.
Hyundai India is most likely to update the Verna in India with a similar front fascia along with the new 6-speed automatic gearbox to take on the fourth generation Honda City. Launched in 2010 in India, the Verna was the leader in the C-segment sedan space and only lost ground recently after the launch of the new Honda City. The sedan is also offered with 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre diesel engine options in India. Hyundai could most likely bring the updated Verna to India next year.
