The growing popularity of subcompact SUVs in the Indian market has attracted many car manufacturers to take a plunge into the category. Tata Motors is doing wonders with its Punch and has been able to consistently sell more than 10,000 units of the SUV. To have a share in the pie, Kia is also gearing to come up with its own subcompact SUV that will be pitted right against the Tata Punch.
According to hearsay, the Korean carmaker is inclined to launch a mass-market, entry-level electric compact SUV for both India and overseas markets. The SUV has been codenamed AY and it will be manufactured in India for both domestic consumption as well as Overseas Exports. Kia is going to use an all-new flexible platform for underpinning the Upcoming SUV besides using the same mechanicals for producing an entry-level small petrol SUV specifically for the market.
In terms of the engine options, Kia will equip the petrol SUV with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor. It is also expected that Kia will bring the CNG version of the vehicle given the popularity and appeal this alternative fuel today commands among prospective customers.
It will be interesting to witness how the market reacts to the development of this new subcompact SUV from the house Kia. The company has already garnered a respectable position in the Indian market with most of these products have been received well by the Indian consumers. In addition to Kia, there are other manufacturers too such as the likes of Hyundai and Citroen which are preparing to launch subcompact SUVs in India for attaining better business prospects and profitability.
