The Kia SP Concept from Auto Expo 2018 that evolved into the Kia SP Signature concept at the 2019 Seoul Motor Show will be ready in production form very soon. According to a new report, the road-ready SUV, codenamed 'Kia SP2i', with the letter "i" in the name referring to the Indian-spec version presumably, will break cover on 20 June 2019.
In the looks department, the Kia SP2i will be very similar to the Kia SP Signature concept. Underpinning the SUV with a macho body and straight lines designed to appeal the traditional SUV lovers in India, will be an upgraded version of the Hyundai Creta's platform. This upgraded platform will be capable of spawning a 7-seat version, and this more practical version will be considered if there's enough demand.
The Kia SP2i will feature the signature Tiger Nose radiator grille flanked by sharp headlamps, LED tail lights and maybe even the biggest alloy wheels in its segment, of 18 inches in diameter. The butch-looking yet urbane exterior will be matched with a sophisticated interior packing advanced technologies and high-quality materials. Expect the equipment list to include an electric sunroof, a 360-degree camera system, a head-up display, a fully-digital instrument cluster, WiFi hotspot, wireless charging and much more.
Kia will sell the SP2i with 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol and 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engines. Transmission choices may include 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. In 2020, the company may introduce a sporty variant packing a 140 PS 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine married to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This will probably be the version getting 18-inch alloy wheels and maybe even red callipers that have been spotted on test mules during numerous occasions. Expect a tauter suspension setup and paddle shifters also in this variant.
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Kia is likely to launch the SP2i in India in July. The company may price it in the INR 10-16 lakh (ex-showroom) range. The Hyundai Creta and Nissan Kicks will be the chief rivals, although the competition will include the Tata Harrier as well.
[Source - AutocarIndia.com]
