Hyundai has recently launched the new-gen Verna sedan at a starting price of Rs 10.90 Lakh – 17.38 Lakh (ex-showroom). At the time of launch (On March 21, 2023), Hyundai had revealed that it received over 8000 pre-orders for the new Verna. The Korean giant is getting aggressive with its product strategy for the Indian market. After the new Verna, Hyundai will introduce two new SUVs in our market in 2023-24.
Hyundai has started testing an all-new micro SUV, internally codenamed Ai3 on the Indian roads. The company will introduce the Ai3 micro SUV in our market by festive season, before Diwali. It will be based on the Grand i10 Nios platform and will also share the engine option with the hatchback. The new model will look different from the Casper on sale in select global markets. It will share styling cues from the Venue compact SUV.
The new Ai3 micro SUV is likely to measure around 3.8 meters in length and will be positioned against the Tata Punch. Not just underpinnings, the new Hyundai micro SUV will share the features with the Grand i10 Nios. It is likely to be powered by a 1.2L NA petrol engine that produces 83bhp and 113.8Nm of torque. The small SUV could also receive a CNG fuel option.
It was speculated that Hyundai will introduce the new Creta SUV in 2023; however, the launch has been pushed to 2024. The company has revealed that it is developing an entirely different model for the Indian market. The SUV will receive India-specific design changes and is not likely to share design cues from the Tucson & the facelifted Creta. The new model is likely to receive new front fascia and new tail-lamps along with a new set of alloy wheels. It is expected to share the interior with the Verna sedan.
The SUV will also receive ADAS tech with features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring, lane assist and others. It will be powered by a new 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol that produces 160PS and 260Nm of torque. Other engine options will include a 115bhp, 1.5L naturally-aspirated petrol and a 115bhp, 1.5-litre turbo diesel.
