Hyundai is working on a new sub 4-metre compact SUV likely to be based on the Grand i10 platform that could go on sale in India in the following year and will also be shipped to other emerging markets.
The sub 4-metre compact SUV space will soon explode with a plethora of options coming in from a host of manufacturers. While Ford and Mahindra have been the early risers in the segment, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Volkswagen and Honda among others are developing their iterations. Buoyed by the growing demand, Hyundai too is planning to introduce a compact SUV in the future that will be positioned below the newly launched Creta in the company’s lineup.
With Hyundai being tight-lipped about its sub 4-metre compact SUV, it is not clear as to when the model will arrive in the Indian market. There is a possibility that the new SUV could be based on the flexible Grand i10 platform which also underpins the Xcent compact sedan. This platform will also spawn an MPV derivative in the following years and hence seems enough for a compact SUV. Apart from India, the Ford EcoSport, Mahindra TUV300 rival could also find takers in other emerging markets with exports likely.
In terms of engine options, Hyundai will be retaining the 1.2-litre Kappa petrol motor from the Grand i10 while a 1.4-litre CRDi diesel is likely to be on offer as well. The Korean automaker could go one step forward and offer a 1.1-litre diesel from the Grand i10 as well on the base variants to keep the asking price low. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual while the 4-speed automatic from the Verna is also likely.
In addition, Hyundai is working to introduce a compact SUV for developed markets independent of the Creta/ix25 SUV. The automaker stated that the Creta which is based on the modified Elantra platform was specifically designed for emerging markets like China, India and the likes. The compact SUV for first world markets will be a lot more different, not to forget a lot better too and will take on the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Chevrolet Trax in the segment. The automaker however, did not confirm as to which platform was the new compact SUV going to be based on or the timeline of its launch.
