Update - IAB reader Navin has spotted two Hyundai AH2 test mules near the Sriperumbudur plant where the production will take place.
September 17 -
IAB reader Maulik Asher has sent images of a Hyundai AH2 (codename) that has been spied testing in Chennai ahead of its launch in the month of October. The test mule wears a 'Star Dust' paint shade. This exterior colour option is currently available on the Grand i10, Xcent, Verna, and Creta.
Many reports speculate that the AH2 is responsible for the revival of the Santro moniker. The company is currently conducting the 'Hyundai naamkaran' contest to invite suggestion for the market name of the AH2. Majority of the respondents have suggested 'Santro' as the name for the new small car.
In price positioning, the 2018 Hyundai Santro will go below the Grand i10, reportedly replacing the Eon. Underpinning it is a new version of the i10's HA platform. Rivals are the Maruti WagonR, Tata Tiago, and Renault Kwid 1.0.
Powering the Hyundai AH2 is reportedly an updated version of the 1.1-litre, four-cylinder petrol motor that served the previous i10. For the old i10, the engine offered a maximum power of 68 bhp along with a peak torque of 99 Nm. The 2018 Hyundai Santro will sport a BSVI-compliant version of the same engine and come with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard and an optional 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). So the AH2 becomes the first Hyundai model to offer an AMT. To be marketed as 'Smart Auto', this gearbox reportedly heads into the next-generation Grand i10 and Elite i20.
Also read: EV variants of Hyundai compact SUV and sedan under study for India - Report
Standard safety features on the Hyundai AH2 will include dual front airbags, ABS, driver and co-driver safety belt reminder, manual override for central locking system, speed alert system, and rear parking sensors.
