Hyundai has a myriad of new launches planned to consolidate its position in the domestic market as well as increase its market share
Hyundai is planning to launch a number of new vehicles in the coming years to strengthen its portfolio as well as expanding into niche segments.
The South Korean auto major currently has around 16 percent market share and is also readying updates across its range as part of having consistent growth in the affordable space. Here is a lowdown of all that Hyundai has in store for us:
1. Hyundai QXi Compact SUV
The long-mooted subcompact SUV codenamed QXi is arriving sometime next year as we previously reported and it could be based on the Carlino concept showcased at 2016 Auto Expo.
Expect it to take latest design cues from the global models with a striking front fascia and packed features list in bold price range to have a dash at Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon and Ford EcoSport. It could feature a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine and could be named Styx’.
2. Hyundai Kona EV
In the second half of 2019, Hyundai is debuting its first ever all electric SUV in India, as the success of the zero-emission Kona may result in the brand exploring more on the EV space with a possible second small electrified SUV.
It is expected to be sold in limited numbers and carry an aggressive price range of around Rs. 25 lakh with maximum claimed range of around 300-350 km if the higher capacity 64 kWh battery pack is used. While the QXi and Kona EV are confirmed launches, other models we are mentioning will eventually arrive between 2019 and 2022 in our estimation.
3. New Hyundai Grand i10
Hyundai has the Grand i10 and Elite i20 as its pillars of success along with Creta in India. The former received a facelift last year while the premium hatchback adorned a mid-cycle update earlier in 2018. However, as the competitors are thriving, Hyundai will be bringing in the duo’s next generations.
The upcoming Grand i10 could make European debut next year before likely reaching India by the end of 2019 or in early 2020 with AMT transmission as Swift. We suspect the new ‘i’ twins’ launch to happen around the same time in our domestic market and if the 2018 Santro is anything to go by, they will definitely have a sharper outlook with improved underpinnings to meet stringent safety and emission regulations.
4. New Hyundai Elite i20
The 2020 Elite i20, in particular, could be scaled up to face the Tata 45X premium hatch, which has already shown glimpses of its VFM intentions in spy pictures.
5. New Hyundai Creta
The next-generation Hyundai Creta is gracing India in 2020 and over the next two years, it will have increased rivalry from Kia SP concept based SUV, Nissan Kicks and Tata Harrier.
It will grow in size to offer seating for seven people and will have expanded range to compete as far as Jeep Compass. The latest global Santa Fe does give some indication of what we can expect from the overhauled Creta and it will certainly get more upmarket along the way. The upcoming Creta will have an impact on the market positioning of the Tucson as well.
6. New Hyundai Tucson
As the Creta, the Tucson will be further pushed to this time compete against Honda CR-V with bigger proportions and equipment onboard. But, Hyundai may take a couple of years to introduce it after the arrival of second-gen Creta.
7. New Hyundai Xcent
The Xcent, on the other hand, will gain a comprehensive makeover as well with heavily upgraded styling package and a brand new interior but the engine options could remain as it currently is – barring the inclusion of AMT.
8. New Verna and New Elantra
The company’s other two sedans in India, Verna and Elantra, will be going through facelift phases as well and they will get BSVI compliant engines by early next decade. Hyundai will be considering a micro SUV if the market demands so.
10. New Mini SUV
The segment will be largely explored in the coming years as Maruti Concept Future S based model and Tata’s purported Hornbill will spice up the proceedings by competing against Mahindra KUV100 and we truly believe Hyundai does not want to be left out either!