Compact is the buzz word these days in the automobile industry. Encouraged by sales volumes and lesser tax, automakers are making a beeline to launch their compact sedans and SUV. Following suite, Hyundai is all set to launch its compact sedan based on the i10 platform at the 2014 Auto Expo.
The compact sedan is expected to house a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.1 litre diesel unit and will rival Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Honda Amaze. The interiors and mechanical bits will largely remain the same as the Hyundai Grand i10. Keyless entry, electrically adjustable OVRMs, power windows, Bluetooth connectivity are some of the expected features in the new sedan, at least as an option in higher end variants.
The Korean automaker will also unveil the new Santa Fe. Hyundai’s new flagship SUV is expected to come with the same 2.2 litre VGT diesel engine as the outgoing model and as a result the power/torque figures remains unaltered. It still pumps out 197 BHP and 422 Nm of torque. The new Santa Fe has already been launched in many of the markets. The car will come with the same wheelbase as the outgoing model at 2700mm.
Parts sharing and CKD route will considerably reduce the costs so expect Hyundai to price these two aggressively.
| Car | Expected Price |
| I10-based compact sedan | Rs 7-9 lakh |
| New Santa Fe | Rs 22 lakh |
-sriram@newindianexpress.com