Kia Tusker (SP2i) SUV will likely be launched in July and go up against Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier and Nissan Kicks with several segment-first features
Kia Motor India will be looking to make a big statement in the domestic market with its debut vehicle, the SP2i. The production version of the SP concept showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo is a highly anticipated launch in recent times as it will be positioned against competitive rivals such as Hyundai Creta and Tata Harrier.
The South Korean auto major began trial production of the SP2i in late January 2019 at its vast Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh which has installed capacity of three lakh units per year and along with vendor partners, Kia has invested more than $ 2 billion. It is no secret that Kia has effusive plans for India as one new car will go on sale every six months till 2022.
The SP2i comes on the back of Kia conducting comprehensive roadshows across the country with its global lineup to attract dealer partners and customers. The compact SUV has international prominence for the brand and it will be introduced in several markets including South Korea and Australia.
The latest pair of spy shots pictured near Vijayamangalam toll plaza in Tamil Nadu indicates the evolution of the prototype compared to what we have seen in recent months. The SP2i will play an integral role in Kia’s aim of becoming the fifth largest automaker in the country in the coming years.
Expected to be christened the Tusker or Trailster, the SP2i is at the final phases of testing and the test mule was adorning production body. The signature Tiger Nose front grille can be noted clearly and is flanked by a pair of slim headlamps and LED sequential turn blinkers. The front bumper has a wide central air intake and the bonnet has a clamshell design.
The heavily raked windshield is accompanied by a set of sturdy pillars emphasising roomy cabin and the SP2i runs on machined wheels. Expect the price to hover around Rs. 9.5-14 lakh (ex-showroom) and it will likely be powered by 1.5-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines with manual and automatic transmission choices. It will feature a range of segment-first equipment including a fully-digital instrument cluster.
Image Courtesy: Sadha