Hyundai's Upcoming Compact SUV to Rival Maruti Fronx: Launch Timeline Revealed
Hyundai is gearing up to significantly impact the burgeoning compact SUV market in India. The South Korean automaker is set to challenge the dominance of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx with a new compact crossover, which is expected to hit the Indian market in the fiscal year 2027. This new model, codenamed Bc4i, is based on the Hyundai Bayon, a popular choice in select global markets. With an estimated price range of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), Hyundai’s new offering will not only compete with the Fronx but also with other contenders like the Toyota Taisor, Tata Nexon, and Citroen C3.
Hyundai’s decision to introduce a sub-4 meter compact SUV is part of a broader strategy to capitalize on the growing demand for compact crossovers in India. This segment has seen a surge in popularity, driven by consumers' preference for vehicles that combine a hatchback's practicality with an SUV's rugged appeal. The new Hyundai model aims to tap into this trend, offering a blend of style, performance, and affordability.
The upcoming Hyundai compact SUV will share its platform with the new-generation i20 hatchback, ensuring a robust and proven foundation. Production will occur at Hyundai’s manufacturing facility in Talegaon, Maharashtra, which is slated to become a hub for producing the new compact SUV. This facility, with a production capacity of nearly 1 lakh units per annum, will also handle the production of the new-generation Venue, expected to debut in 2025. This strategic use of the Talegaon plant underscores Hyundai's commitment to ramping up its presence in the Indian market.
The Hyundai Bayon, first introduced in 2021 as a replacement for the i20 Active in several global markets, serves as the inspiration for the new compact SUV. In Hyundai's global lineup, the Bayon sits between the Venue and Creta SUVs. The Bayon-based compact crossover will likely adopt design cues from the Kona facelift, featuring arrow-shaped headlamps, a distinctive rear-end design, and thin DRLs. The exterior will also include body cladding, a tapering roofline, and faux skid plates at both the front and back, giving it a rugged yet stylish look.
Inside, the new Hyundai compact SUV is expected to mirror the interior design of the i20 hatchback. This means an all-black dashboard, steering wheel, and switchgear, complemented by a 10.25-inch display and a host of modern features. This alignment with the i20’s interior design ensures a premium feel and consistency in Hyundai’s product lineup.
Globally, the Hyundai Bayon is offered with two engine options: a 1.2L petrol engine producing 84bhp and a 1.0L turbo petrol engine available in two states of tune, generating either 100bhp or 120bhp. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed iMT. While the exact engine details for the India-spec model remain under wraps, it is anticipated that the new compact SUV will borrow its powertrain setup from the i20 hatchback and the Venue subcompact SUV. This would provide a range of reliable and efficient powertrains to meet the diverse needs of Indian consumers.
Hyundai’s entry into the sub-4 meter compact SUV segment is a strategic move aimed at capturing a larger share of the Indian automotive market. By offering a competitively priced, feature-rich, and stylish compact SUV, Hyundai aims to attract a wide range of customers, from young professionals to small families looking for a versatile vehicle.
The new Hyundai compact SUV's launch in 2027 will undoubtedly intensify competition in the segment. With rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Toyota Taisor, Tata Nexon, and Citroen C3 already vying for consumer attention, Hyundai’s latest offering will need to stand out with its unique blend of design, performance, and features.
In conclusion, Hyundai’s upcoming compact SUV represents a significant step in the automaker’s strategy to strengthen its foothold in the Indian market. By leveraging its global expertise and local manufacturing capabilities, Hyundai is poised to deliver a compelling new vehicle that promises to redefine the compact SUV segment in India. As the launch date approaches, anticipation and excitement are sure to build among consumers eager to see how Hyundai’s new model will stack up against established competitors.
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