A fresh set of spy shots reveals Hyundai's upcoming sub-4 metre electric SUV testing at a Goa charging station.
The expected powertrain details are borrowed from the international-spec Hyundai Inster EV.
The new model will sit within Hyundai's growing electric lineup in India.
Hyundai's upcoming sub-4 metre electric SUV has been spotted testing in India yet again, and the latest sighting is arguably the most revealing one so far. The heavily wrapped test vehicle was photographed at a charging station in Goa, parked alongside what appeared to be an equally camouflaged Kia Carens Clavis EV in its GT Line/X-Line variant. It is quite the electric gathering, and the Hyundai in question is clearly the more intriguing of the two.
Despite the full-body camouflage, the silhouette speaks volumes. The SUV carries a tall, upright stance with a noticeably boxy profile, a flat roofline, and roof rails, all of which point to a vehicle that prioritises practicality and interior space over aerodynamic drama. The rear section follows the same upright philosophy, which should translate well into boot capacity and rear headroom.
Alloy Wheels Signal This Is Getting Serious
Steel Wheels Out, Aero Alloys In
One detail that stands out immediately when comparing this sighting to earlier test mules is the wheel choice. Previous test vehicles were spotted riding on plain steel wheels, which is standard practice during early-stage development.
This latest prototype, however, rolls on a fresh set of dual-tone alloy wheels featuring a geometric multi-spoke design, likely measuring around 16 or 17 inches.
The aerodynamically optimized design is a clear giveaway that the vehicle is electric, and the switch to alloys is a strong indication that Hyundai is now evaluating more production-representative hardware.
Designed in India, Destined for the World
Hyundai's Most Committed India Project Yet
What makes this upcoming model particularly significant is its origins. Hyundai has confirmed that this electric SUV is being designed and developed specifically for India, while also being planned for export to other global markets. It will be the first Hyundai electric vehicle to be built from the ground up in the country.
The project has already been acknowledged in Hyundai India's 2025 Investor Day presentation, lending it an official weight that goes well beyond mere spy shots.
Familiar Mechanicals, Fresh Purpose
On the mechanical front, the new sub-4 metre EV is expected to share its underpinnings with the international-spec Hyundai Inster EV. This would bring two battery configurations into the picture, a 42 kWh unit producing 95 bhp and 147 Nm of torque, and a larger 49 kWh pack pushing out 113 bhp with the same torque figure. An NMC battery chemistry and a front-biased motor setup are both expected to be part of the package.
Positioning in the Hyundai India Lineup
Once launched, this electric SUV will slot below the Creta Electric in Hyundai's India lineup, taking aim at rivals such as the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV3XO EV.
Hyundai has not confirmed an official launch date, but the pace of testing suggests development is well on track. A debut later in 2026 appears plausible, with Indian production planned from the outset.
India is now the world's third-largest automobile market, and for Hyundai, a purpose-built, accessible electric SUV is not just a product decision. It is a statement of long-term intent.
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