The Korean automaker, Hyundai is preparing a new subcompact SUV for the Indian market. To be positioned below the Venue compact SUV, the Hyundai new small SUV will rival the likes of Tata Punch and the upcoming Maruti Baleno Cross. For people not in the know, Hyundai is already selling the Casper micro SUV in Korea; however, the India-spec model will be an all-new model. Internally called the Hyundai Ai3, the new micro SUV is likely to be unveiled at Auto Expo 2023.
Ahead of the official debut, the Hyundai Ai3 micro SUV has been spotted in Korea. The spy video has been shared online by Youtube channel @acgoon, which confirms that the India-spec model is significantly different from the Hyundai Casper. The spy video reveals that the new model will have design similarities with the Venue compact SUV. In fact, it looks like a mini Venue.
The new Hyundai Ai3 subcompact SUV is based on the heavily localised K1 platform that underpins the recently discontinued Santro hatchback. The small SUV could be the brand’s new entry-level model in our market. In terms of styling, the new Hyundai micro SUV gets projector headlamps, LED DRLs, rectangular-shaped headlamp unit, differently styled rear tail-lights, etc. The Casper has circular headlamp and C-pillar mounted rear door handles. On the other hand, the rear door handle is placed in a conventional place.
The Hyundai Casper micro SUV measures 3595mm in length, 1595mm in width and 1575mm in height, and has a wheelbase on 2400. However, the India-spec model is likely to measure around 3.7-3.8 meters in length and will have a longer wheelbase.
The India-spec Hyundai Ai3 subcompact SUV is likely to share features with the Grand i10 Nios and the Venue compact SUV. It is expected to get features like LED lighting system, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument console, an electric sunroof, automatic air-conditioning and others. The vehicle could get six airbags as standard along with ABS with EBD, and others. The addition of a single pane sunroof will give Hyundai’s small SUV a competitive advantage over Tata Punch.
The Korean-spec Hyundai Casper is offered with two engine options – a 75bhp, 1.0L naturally-aspirated petrol and a 99bhp, 1.0L turbocharged petrol engine. The India-spec model is likely to source the engine options with the Grand i10 Nios. It is most likely to get a 1.2L 4-cylinder NA petrol engine that produces 81bhp and 114Nm of torque. The company could also offer a CNG version of the micro SUV. Both manual and AMT gearbox options will be on offer.
Source – Youtube
