After successfully launching the second generation Elite i20 premium hatchback in the country, Hyundai India will focus on the compact SUV segment, an all-new turf for the South Korean manufacturer. The automaker is eyeing to increase its market share in India and is betting big on the new segments including MPVs to bring in substantial volumes for the company. The Korean automaker currently retails only the Santa Fe SUV in India and will launch the ix25 compact SUV next year (Hyundai’s next new product launch although the Elantra facelift will come before) that will be locking horns with the Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano, Ford EcoSport and the likes in the segment.
The Hyundai ix25 was first showcased at the Beijing Motor Show earlier this year and will be launched in China on 9th October. The compact SUV measures 4270 mm in length, 1780 mm in width and 1630 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2590 mm. From the first impressions gained, the ix25 is certainly a promising vehicle that looks urban, smart and very premium. Moreover, the interiors take inspiration from the Santa Fe that only adds to the premium appeal of the SUV. The ix25 promises to have an impressive build quality, while the equipment will be in abundance.
The Hyundai ix25 will be sharing a lot of components with the new Elite i20 as both the models are based on the same platform. In terms of engine options too, we expect the 1.4-litre petrol and diesel engines to be offered under the hood, while the 1.6-litre units from the Verna could also make an appearance. 4WD has been confirmed for the China spec model and we expect Hyundai to offer the same in India as well, especially with the Duster being equipped with one soon.
Hyundai has had a very successful run in the recent years with four back-to-back models including the Elantra, Grand i10, Santa Fe and Xcent that have achieved impressive sales across different segments. Hyundai’s gamble to enter into new segments has paid off well as the Grand i10 achieved overwhelming sales for the company with more than 1 lakh sales in 10 months, while the Xcent compact sedan is having a successful run with 30,000 units sold and counting.
Despite the sluggish market conditions, the new launches helped Hyundai remain afloat and also increased its market share marginally. The January-July 2014 period saw the automaker retail over 2.35 lakh vehicles in the country achieving a market share of 20.6 percent, 0.2 percent more than last year during the same period. The company is optimistic that the success of the Elite i20 will help further stabilize the company’s position in India. If Hyundai’s past record is anything to go by, the automaker already has a winner up its sleeve with the ix25.
