Hyundai to launch entry-level SUV to rival Tata Punch in 2023
A news outlet reports that Hyundai India is developing a new entry-level SUV that will sit below the Tata Punch in its line-up. This model has been codenamed the Ai3 and will be positioned below the Hyundai Venue in the brand's line-up. Despite dropping to the third position in the sales charts, Hyundai is still the largest SUV maker in India as of December 2021 and the new model is expected to strengthen this position significantly.
2023 Hyundai Ai3 SUV expected engine, specificationsThe upcoming Hyundai Ai3 should be a heavily localized version of the Hyundai Casper CUV that was launched in South Korea in 2021. The Ai3 should be based on the K1 platform that also underpins the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and will most likely be offered with the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor that does duty in the hatchback and the entry-level variants of the Hyundai Venue. This motor makes 83PS and 114 Nm, pairing with a five-speed manual or AMT. Styling should mimic that of larger Hyundai SUVs and see the use of a split headlamp design at the front with angular surfaces and sharp bodylines.
2023 Hyundai Ai3 SUV expected features
Expect the Hyundai Ai3 to be heavily equipped and come with features such as drive/terrain modes, 8-inch infotainment with wireless Android Auto/Apple Carplay, connected tech, LED lighting and so on. Space should be on par with the Hyundai i20 but with large windows and maybe even a sunroof.
2023 Hyundai Ai3 SUV expected price, rivalsThe Hyundai Ai3 should be priced similarly to the Tata Punch, expected to start from Rs 5.5 lakh and go up to Rs 9.5 lakh ex-showroom. Other rivals include the naturally-aspirated versions of the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite.
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