Kia Subcompact SUV Could Be Packed With Several Features As Hyundai Venue

Kia Subcompact SUV Rendered 1
Kia Compact SUV Rendering

Kia’s subcompact SUV could be based on the same platform as Hyundai Venue and is expected to offer high-end features

Kia Motor India is pulling out all the stops to make a big statement in the domestic market with the SP2i. Based on the SP concept showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo, the SP2i follows the latest design language implemented by the brand globally and has a feature-packed interior with several equipment and technologies used in the flagship Telluride.

The SP2i will compete against Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier and Nissan Kicks but the closely matched competition will arise from the upcoming MG Hector as both the premium SUVs will be embroiled in a technology battle. The South Korean auto major has planned to become the fifth largest selling brand in India in the coming months and will be launching one new product every six months until 2022.

This could also include a sub-four-metre SUV based on the newly launched Venue. Kia’s parental brand, Hyundai, took longer than expected to enter the tightly contested subcompact SUV segment. The Venue is priced aggressively with starting price of Rs. 6.50 lakh (ex-showroom) and is offered in a wide powertrain choice: two petrol and one diesel.

India-Bound Kia Stonic Crossover Side
Kia Stonic

It is paramount for Kia to feature in this segment if it wants to garner good volumes in India and basing its SUV on the Hyundai Venue will be a logical step forward. When it comes into fruition, the SUV will be the smallest within the company’s portfolio and our rendering will give you some indication of how it may look like adorning the signature Tiger Nose grille and a split headlamp setup.

To attract buyers, Kia could follow the same route as Hyundai by boldly pricing the SUV with high local content and part sharing. Kia is pitching its vehicles in India with a premium demeanour and there is no reason for the subcompact SUV to stray from that path.

Just as in the Venue, Kia could stuff the SUV with upscale equipment such as a large touchscreen HD infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, cloud-based voice recognition, emergency services engine start/stop, electric sunroof, cruise control, reverse parking camera with dynamic guidelines, embedded SIM, a similar form of Blue Link technology, etc.