Hyundai’s Upcoming Micro-SUV Could Arrive Sooner Than You Think

• The AX1 is set to arrive by next year.

• It gets distinct design elements, different from the current Hyundai models.

• Powertrain options could be the same as that of the Grand i10 Nios.

• It is likely to be priced from Rs 6 lakh onwards.

Hyundai’s plans to introduce a micro SUV, codenamed AX1, as a rival to the Tata HBX seem to be in full effect as is evident from these spy shots from South Korea.

Despite the heavy camouflage, the model appears to be ready for production. The spy shots also reveal some of the micro-SUV’s key design aspects. Up front, the boxy SUV gets a cute appearance thanks to a split headlamp setup with circular headlamps and LED DRLs. In profile, you can notice the alloy wheels, roof rails, and the door handles, which are placed on the C-pillar. At the back of the AX1, the LED taillights feature triangular graphics. You can also spot circular lights on the bumper, shaped like the headlights up front. These are probably the reverse indicator and fog lights.

As far as the feature list is concerned, you can expect Hyundai to keep it fairly loaded. The AX1 is likely to get a decent-sized touchscreen infotainment system, connected car tech, auto AC, electronic stability controls, and multiple airbags. Standard safety features such as ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors will be offered in the AX1.

Hyundai could equip the micro-SUV with the same three powertrains offered with the Grand i10 Nios. The hatchback gets an 83PS 1.2-litre petrol engine, a 100PS 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, and a 75PS 1.2-litre diesel engine. All engines are offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard, but the naturally aspirated petrol and the diesel versions get a 5-speed AMT option as well.

The AX1 will go on sale next year, and we expect it to be priced from Rs 6 lakh onwards. Aside from the HBX, it will also compete with the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the Mahindra KUV100 NXT.

Image Source