Kia Sp2i Spied in Mumbai doing rounds to probably have a better understand of engine stress and various elevation changes to make its power train more reliable
The upcoming compact SUV Kia Sp2i Spied in Mumbai for the first time. Known by its codename SP2i, the SUV might be christened Tusker when it finally launches in India this year. The spied images revealed a lot about the Tusker’s overall design and style. It has got a silhouette similar to Hyundai Creta though the rising shoulder line feels a bit steeper here than in Creta. Dimensions are quite substantial and the SUV has got the machismo and road-presence to impress the buyers.
The rear portion of Tusker has got a lot of character and high-ground clearance enhances the practicality of its design. Despite the use of 17-inch alloy wheels, the gaping wheel well is quite apparent and the test mule was spotted with all-around disc brakes. We expect Kia to offer this safety feature as standard across the Tusker’s range. Imposing front grille, shark-fin antenna, and roof-rails are some of the other design highlights of the Kia Tusker.
In terms of engine and transmission, Kia will be utilizing the services of a turbocharged 1.5-liter petrol engine and a 1.6-liter diesel engine to power the Tusker. Both of these engines will be compliant with BS-VI emission norms and expected to provide customers with decent fuel efficiency without compromising on the performance. Kia will share the 1.6-liter diesel engine with the Hyundai while the 1.5-liter petrol motor is soon expected to make its way in Hyundai Creta.
Kia has established a manufacturing facility in the Andhra Pradesh from where Tusker will be rolled out. This manufacturing facility will also act as a global production hub as from here made-in-India Kia vehicles will be exported to the international market. Once launched, Kia Tusker will compete against Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, Nissan Kicks, and Renault Captur among others.
