Hyundai will re-enter the premium car segment with next generation Elantra and Sonata sedans over the next couple of months.
The Sonata will be launched first followed by the Elantra to take on the likes of Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze and Skoda Laura. Both these are global models developed on the same aggressive ‘fluidic design concept’ that has been accepted well by Indian customer in the new Verna making it the segment leader in mid-size cars.
Hyundai exited this segment and did not launch the previous gen Elantra which will be priced in the range of Rs. 10-13 lakh.
The Sonata sedan would come in a 2.4-litre petrol engine only, while the Elantra would debut in both diesel and petrol options. Hyundai will assemble both the cars at its Chennai plan to enjoy lower taxes
“We would fill the vacuum in the premium car space with two new cars lined up this year,” Hyundai Motor India Director (Marketing & Sales) Arvind Saxena said.
Hyundai had showcased both the models at the 2012 Auto Expo which helped the South Korean carmaker to collect important feedback in terms of features and pricing.
2012 is certainly going to see more launches from other car makers too.
