- The Hyundai MPV is likely to be launched in 2021.
- It is expected to be co-developed with Kia Motors
- It may share the platform and engines/transmissions with the upcoming Kia MPV.
Hyundai Motor India Ltd. is the only mass-market carmaker to have its presence in almost every segment, sparing one - the compact MPV segment. And that is soon expected to change as the South Korean carmaker is believed to be developing a C-segment MPV to compete against the likes of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, XL6 and Mahindra Marazzo.
The compact MPV in question could be co-developed with Kia Motors, as the latter is also working on a compact MPV for the Indian market. It is expected to be based on a modified version of the next-generation Hyundai Creta platform, which currently underpins the Kia Seltos. The said platform may be stretched to increase its length, width, wheelbase, and the front and rear track. The plan is to offer class-leading knee and headroom, and a flexible seating option to accommodate up to seven/eight passengers.
Although details about the Hyundai MPV are sparse, we can expect a market launch sometime in 2021. Interestingly, the Kia MPV is also expected to be launched in India in 2021. Both the MPVs will be manufactured in India for the domestic market, but will also be exported to some Southeast Asian markets like Indonesia. Sources claim that the Hyundai MPV will be positioned below Kia's counterpart. Expect a pricing of around Rs 8-12 lakhs (ex-showroom).
As far as powertrains are concerned, it is safe to expect the Hyundai compact MPV to come with the 1.5-litre petrol and turbo-diesel engines, which are offered in the Kia Seltos and will soon make their way into the new-gen Hyundai Creta. Transmission options will include a six-speed manual gearbox as standard fitment. The petrol motor could come with a CVT option, while the oil burner may get a six-speed torque converter automatic. We can also expect to come with Hyundai’s Blue Link smart connectivity features.
Note: Representational Image.
