Hyundai will be adding a compact SUV to its portfolio next year to compete with the likes of the Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster. Several other manufacturers are also preparing for the same growing segment. The Korean manufacturer has already started conducting tests of the baby SUV from mid-2013. The SUV segment is the fastest growing segment in India as well as other specific markets. Hyundai is planning an additional production capacity at its Brazil plant. This move comes in a way to accommodate the upcoming compact SUV with 4000 units per month.
At present, Hyundai’s Piracicaba plant in Sao Paulo has a monthly capacity of 12,500 units, which is expanding to 16,500 units next year for the new compact SUV. The specific Brazilian plant currently manufactures the HB20, HB20S and HB20X. The Korean manufacturer is expected to commence production of the compact SUV in Brazil starting from next year. The small SUV is expected to be launched globally in 2014 itself. The new product is being developed with the help of the R&D team in India and Korea.
The upcoming Hyundai mini SUV is expected to share its platform with the Hyundai i20 and measure just around 4-metres in length. Hyundai will design the new offering in its latest fluidic avatar, which could be derived from the latest generation Santa Fe. We can expect smaller engines such as the 1.2-litre Kappa petrol and 1.4-litre CRDI diesel engine to attract lower excise duties. Hyundai is known for its feature loaded offerings and aggressive pricing and similarly the baby SUV can heat up the competition with its attractive price and packaging.
The car pictured here is for representation purpose only and has no relation to the upcoming compact SUV.
