South Korean car maker, Hyundai will launch a compact SUV and MPV in the Indian market in 2014. Hyundai which is the second largest car maker in India plans to enter new segments to increase its market share also get closer to Maruti Suzuki which is India’s largest car maker.
Hyundai currently has no offerings in SUV & MPV segment which has been growing in double digits. Maruti Suzuki launched the Ertiga MPV in 2012 and has the been selling 5K plus units monthly. The MPV segment which was largely dominated by Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova saw a dramatic change in terms of numbers with the introduction of the Ertiga MPV.
Hyundai showcased the HND-7 MPV concept at the 2012 Auto Expo. The company is working hard to launch this model in 2014 and will be a apt seven seater with three rows. The MPV will get the Fluidic treatment and be offered in both petrol & diesel engine options.
The compact SUV will be based on the i20 platform and could also measure below four metres which gives the 10% excise duty advantage. Hyundai had made a soft announcement about the plans to launch a mini SUV based on the ix-Oniq concept which the South Korean car maker had showcased at the 2009 Geneva Motor show. We can expect Hyundai to pack the SUV with all the comfort features and gizmos. Hyundai will offer the 1.2 petrol & 1.4 diesel engines available on the i20 hatchback.
Hyundai wants to be larger player and has aggressive plans which includes a mix new models launches, increase in number of dealers, service centres and fresh investments. A diesel engine plant has already been commissioned which is likely to be operation by 2014 , a all new plant most probably in Gujarat and focus on increased customer satisfaction.
Hyundai will launch a new compact hatch based on the HB platform, the all new Santa Fe in 2013 and a compact sedan in 2014 besides refresh its existing line-up.
Hyundai is living up to its tag line New Thinking New Possibilities.
