People have started liking the mid-size SUV segment models in the country. However, there are very few options in this segment. Most of the models in the segment are powered by Mahindra. At the same time, Hyundai offers the Alcazar, but it is not considered a direct model in the mid-size segment. In such a situation, the company is reportedly working on an SUV that would fill this gap. According to the Autocar report, the company is working on a new petrol hybrid SUV. This will fill the gap in the mid-size SUV segment for the customers. In the segment, it will directly compete with models like the Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, MG Hector and Toyota Innova Hycross.
Recently, Hyundai launched the Alcazar facelift, which is the first major update of the 3-row SUV. However, it does not directly fit into the segment where Tata Safari, MG Hector and segment leader Mahindra XUV700 operate. Alongside, there is also Toyota Innova Hycross which has made its mark in the Indian market. In such a situation, Hyundai is working on a new petrol hybrid SUV, which will fit into both these segments. Internally named Ni1i, the upcoming Hyundai SUV will be produced at Hyundai’s recently acquired plant (from General Motors) located in Talegaon, outside Pune.
The unnamed 3-row SUV will be priced higher than the Alcazar and lower than the Tucson in the company’s lineup. Given the expectations of a powerful hybrid powertrain (self-charging hybrid), it makes perfect sense for a brand like Hyundai to jump on the bandwagon. Reports suggest that this upcoming SUV from Hyundai will be based on the Tucson LWB sold in China. The length of the Tucson LWB is 4,680 mm. Whereas the length of the India-spec Tucson is 4,630 mm. In such a situation, the third row makes the seat easy to use.
Internationally, Hyundai offers a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid setup with its Tucson. So, we can expect a similar hybrid setup with Hyundai’s 1.5-litre NA petrol engine. This will help keep its cost under control. Hence, the hybrid powertrain will raise expectations in India. We can expect Kia to also offer its own version based on the same hybrid powertrain. As of now, there is no timeline for this mid-size hybrid SUV, but it could be launched within 2-2.5 years.