In the second half of 2018, Hyundai will launch a new affordable family model in India. The Hyundai AH2 (codename) aka new Hyundai Santro has been spotted camouflaged on public roads since November 2017. Here is all we know about the base hatchback.
Tallboy shape
The Hyundai AH2 has a tall-boy design as evident from spy shots of test mules. Expect the front end to feature the company's signature cascading grille. The high mounted fog lamps up front, and dual tone bumper with a prominent black insert at the rear add character to the design. A slight kink in the window line positioned just below the B-pillar can also be seen in spy pictures.
Old i10's underbody
Hyundai will utilize the HA platform of the first generation i10 as the foundations of the new hatchback. The Hyundai AH2 will not be using the cheaper PA chassis that underpins the Hyundai Eon to comply with forthcoming safety regulations.
A reworked 1.1L petrol engine
Under the hood, the Hyundai AH2 will feature the 1,086 cc 4-cylinder Epsilon engine that powered the Santro Xing, reports Autocar India. It will be retuned and could produce added power and torque while complying with strict emission norms.
First Hyundai AMT
The upcoming hatchback debuts Hyundai's AMT technology. The company has already confirmed this development. It will be a 5-speed unit that will soon serve other compact Hyundai vehicles. Manual variants will use a 5-speed gearbox.
Dual-tone interior & Touchscreen
As per a report from May, the AH2 will get a Grand i10-like steering wheel with controls for audio and phone, black and beige finish, fixed headrest seats, and power window controls placed behind the gear lever. While report mention the absence of a touchscreen, Autocar claims that there is likely to be one in the top-end grade.
Airbags Standard
As mentioned earlier, a modified version of the Hyundai i10's HA platform will be used to comply with the upcoming new safety regulations. Dual front airbags, ABS, and rear parking sensors will be standard safety features.
Roomy cabin
Speaking about the new hatchback, Y K Koo, MD & CEO of HMIL, revealed that it would be bigger and wider than the Santro. This should translate to increased interior space. Dimensions could be similar to the first generation i10, which for reference measured 3,585 mm long, 1,595 mm wide, and 1,550 mm tall.
Hyundai Santro resurrection
Although unconfirmed, several reports have indicated that the AH2 will revive the Hyundai Santro nameplate in India. Several publications, as well as workers at HMIL's Tamil Nadu plant, have taken to calling it the 'new Santro.'
August 2018 release
The company has confirmed that it will be launched in the second half of 2018. According to a report from March, the launch of the Hyundai AH2 will take place this August.
INR 3 lakhs starting price
Autocar says that the hatchback will replace the 7-year old Hyundai Eon. However, it will be priced a little higher. As per estimates, prices will fall in the INR 3-5 lakhs range (ex-showroom). Rivals of the new Hyundai Santro include the Tata Tiago, Maruti Alto K10, Maruti Celerio, and the Maruti Wagon R. 1.0 L variants of the Renault Kwid may be potential rivals as well.
[source- Autocar India]
