Hyundai QXi (Styx) will be the first launch from the brand early next year and it is expected to be priced aggressively
Hyundai’s biggest launch this year had unarguably been the new Santro as the popular nameplate was revived to get back the lost share in the entry-level segment. The second largest automaker in the country is planning to introduce a number of new vehicles next year to further strengthen its position in the market and close the gap to Maruti Suzuki.
The South Korean manufacturer will have a busy 2019 courtesy of a slew of launches. Chief among them is subcompact SUV that will square off against segment leading Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport and the upcoming Mahindra S201. The latter could launch around the same timeline as Hyundai’s SUV.
Codenamed QXi, Hyundai might use the Styx name for the production version and is expected to be positioned aggressively in the market, just like every other Hyundais present in the volume space. Mahindra has been keen on adding segment-first features in the S201 and Hyundai could replicate the same path.
The top-notch competition in the segment is all good for customers as more VFM products will emerge in retrospect. Hyundai gave glimpses of the Styx through the Carlino Concept displayed way back in February 2016 at the Auto Expo. With Hyundai having spotted testing the model already, we might get to see it on Indian roads sooner rather than later.
Hyundai will adopt latest global design language on the Styx with cascading front grille, eyebrow headlamps and sleek design elements. It could be priced in the region of Rs. 6.7-9.5 lakh (ex-showroom) and will likely have several standard safety features like dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, reversing sensors, seatbelt reminder, speed warning function, etc.
The Styx could give rise to a Kia cousin in the near future and it will reportedly be powered by fuel-efficient 1.0-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. Hyundai will more likely offer manual as well as AMT transmission choices with the Styx while its premium status could be ensured by a raft of new features.