Mumbai, January 9, 2014: Hyundai’s much-awaited Grand i10 saloon is expected to make its debut on February 4, according to sources. The car is essentially modeled on the BA platform and will take on the Maruti Dzire and Honda Amaze, both of which are doing good numbers. While the Amaze has sold nearly 60,000 units since its launch in April 2013, the Dzire has totted up 142,863 units since the beginning of this financial year.

Now with the Grand i10 saloon, Hyundai wants a share of this growing market. With this new saloon, it will aim to fill the large void at the lower end of its model line-up left by the Accent after it was phased out last year.

The new saloon will share a lot with the Grand i10 hatchback. Things like the high-quality dashboard, front seats, rear air-con vent and the long equipment list are likely to be lifted directly. The 1.2-litre petrol and 1.1-litre diesel engines are likely to be carried over too; the i20’s 1.4-litre diesel engine will not make it to the small saloon because it would be too large to fit into the small engine bay.

Also, given the economies of scale or sharing of costs the new saloon will enjoy with the hatchback, Hyundai will surely aim at giving it a competitive price-tag. And, needless to say, it will be on display at the upcoming 2014 Auto Expo next month.

SUMANTRA BAROOAH

Photograph: Hyundai’s midsize saloon spied testing.