MPVs are on a surge in India, and manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki and Toyota have been on the forefront with their always high-on-demand products which cater to the segment. Since Hyundai has been on its toes when it comes to launching new and innovative products in the recent past, there is a good chance that it might be working on an MPV.
Hyundai had plans for launching an MPV in India in the past, but it axed that project. But now, rumours have surfaced again. So, IAB asked the company about the same on the sidelines of the Grand i10 Nios media drive. The response indicated that the company might indeed be working on an MPV for our market. "If there is a demand for such a product, if the customer needs it, then Hyundai will definitely cater to the same," Punnet Anand, Senior GM and Group Head of Hyundai's Indian subsidiary said.
"We have a global portfolio and we are looking to explore all possibilities," Anand told IAB about potentially the first Hyundai MPV for India. However, its global portfolio comprises only the ix20 and the H-1, and neither are suitable for our market to achieve large volumes.
In all likeliness, India will get a newly developed Hyundai MPV that will go against the Maruti Ertiga. Such a model will help the company grow its sales significantly in the ASEAN markets. Hyundai has confirmed that it will set up a manufacturing model in Indonesia, and what better a model to get the ball rolling than a Mitsubishi Xpander rivaling MPV!
The Hyundai MPV developed especially for emerging markets may achieve monthly sales of somewhere between 5,000-10,000 units in India. In addition to the segment leader Maruti Ertiga with an average monthly sales of 8,000+ units, the competition will include its rugged and more premium mechanical cousin Maruti XL6 as well.
In order to price the MPV from well below INR 10 lakh (ex-showroom), Hyundai may use an extended version of the Venue's K1 platform. Engine options may include 115 PS 1.5-litre petrol and diesel units. A 6-speed transmission could be standard, although one can expect options for a CVT with the petrol engine and a 6-speed AT with the diesel engine.
Also Read: Hyundai Grand i10 Nios CNG confirmed for launch
Expect the new Hyundai MPV to reach showrooms in India sometime early next decade. It wouldn't surprise us if a concept version is showcased at Auto Expo 2020.
