Hyundai Motor is planning a new MPV for the Indian market and the model is expected to arrive possibly by next year. The new offering is likely to be the brand’s version of the Kia Carens and was recently spotted testing in its home market South Korea. The new MPV appears in an angular shape with a massive grille gracing the front flanked by vertically-stacked LED headlamps. The design is likely to be futuristic and will set the model apart from the existing MPVs on sale in the same space.
The cabin will be offered in a seven or eight-seater configuration with the model packed to the brim on the feature front. Expect to see large screens, digital instrument cluster and more with the latest offering along with a host of practical storage options. Hyundai will like to keep things premium on the inside, and we can expect a lot of components coming from the Creta/Venue parts bin.
In terms of the powertrain, the upcoming Hyundai MPV is likely to draw power from the 1.5-litre petrol, 1.4-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. The units also power the Creta in the company’s line-up and offer a good balance between power and efficiency. Transmission choices are likely to include the 6-speed manual, IMT, a torque converter and even a DCT option.
The MPV segment has been a consistent seller for several manufacturers. Maruti Suzuki has the lead here with the Ertiga and XL6 that bring in healthy volumes, while the Toyota Innova Crysta rules the premium end of this segment. In fact, Toyota is all set to bring the new Innova Hycross that will be a smaller MPV and compete directly with the XL6 and the Carens. The MPV from Hyundai would promise a few thousand units every month and will be positioned below the Alcazar in the company’s line-up. We will have to wait and see when the model turns up for launch though. Expect a few announcements at the 2023 Auto Expo.
