Hyundai developing compact SUV

Mumbai, September 3, 2013: Hyundai is developing a compact SUV to take on the likes of the successful Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster, as part of its new model offensive. According to Autocar India, our sister publication, the compact SUV due in 2015 is to be built on a unique platform (codenamed GC) and tailor-made for the Indian market – just like the Hyundai Eon. Additionally, it is also likely to carry an Indian name, a first for Hyundai.

The new SUV is likely to have a seven-seat configuration but packaging constraints may limit Hyundai to making it a five-seater instead. Under the hood, will likely be the Verna’s 1.6-litre diesel engine but Hyundai may develop a new 1.5-litre diesel engine to avoid the Rs 15,000 tax that applies to engines larger than 1.5 litres.

In terms of styling, expect the SUV to be toned down and more practical rather than sport an aggressive design. Price-wise, the company is looking to price it at under Rs 10 lakh.

The EcoSport, launched in June 2013, which has sold just under 10,000 units so far and the Duster from Renault are the mainstays in the compact segment.

According to SIAM, the SUV segment is expected to grow by 11-13 percent in the current year. New products like the Duster have boosted volumes but it remains to be seen if the sales momentum will continue given the hike in diesel and rising petrol prices.