Hyundai is supposedly working on a new entry-level hatchback for the Indian market. This new model has recently been spotted testing under heavy camouflage. Though the company hasn’t yet revealed any specific details about the upcoming model, media reports suggest that the car might be launched under the Santro brand name.
The spotted model appears to be ready for production, thus revealing that Hyundai has already reached the last stage of its development. Hence, it is highly likely that the Korean automaker will showcase the new-gen Santro at the 2018 Auto Expo. We expect the final information regarding the same to be revealed pretty soon.
Our sources also reveal that this new Hyundai hatchback will be powered by the company’s all-new AH2 petrol engine. This is expected to be a sub-800cc powerplant which will also be seen in some entry-level models from Kia Motors. It is worth remembering here that Hyundai’s budget-oriented sister company – Kia, will be entering the Indian market in a couple of years. To read more about it, click here!
Though the new hatchback is completely disguised under heavy camouflage, the spy shots do reveal a familiar Hyundai design language, a tall boy profile and a large glass area. It is also expected to boast of a spacious interior, in order to compete against the likes of the Maruti Celerio and Tata Tiago. Moreover, Hyundai will likely load the new Santro with ample features, similar to what the company has been doing for all its models. Hence, expect the new hatchback to be one of the most feature-loaded cars in its segment.
It is not yet known what price range the new hatchback will be launched in. However, speculations suggest that the new Santro (as it is rumoured to be named) will be a replacement for the Hyundai i10, which has already been discontinued, as well as the Eon, which is currently the most affordable Hyundai car in India. Hence, we expect the new Hyundai Santro 2018 to be priced in the range of Rs 3 lakh – Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom).
Spy Image: Rushlane