Hyundai Motor India Limited is one of the leading car makers in the country and has enjoyed a significant market share in the hatchback segment with its models like Eon, i10 and i20. The company is expected to launch Hyundai i15 soon, which is likely to be placed between the i10 and i20. Upon launch, it will be the least priced diesel car launched by Hyundai in India and will compete with the likes of Maruti Ritz, Chevrolet Beat and Nissan Micra.
According to industry experts, Hyundai i15 will be equipped with a second generation three-cylinder 1.1-litre diesel engine, which can produce a maximum output of 75 bhp and peak torque of 150 Nm. On the other hand, the petrol variant of the hatchback is expected to possess a reworked Kappa 2 engine that is currently fitted in i10 and i20 models. As far as styling is concerned, the car reflects the company's much favoured Fluidic Design. This hatchback will be larger in size than i10 and consequently, more spacious on the inside.
No official announcements have been made about the launch of Hyundai i15, but speculations are rife that it might happen soon-before the Diwali festive season. The pricing too is unclear, but considering the specifications and features of i15, it will surely cost more than the i10, which comes in the range of Rs. 3.80 lakh - 6.20 lakh. Going by the design and presence of diesel engine, Hyundai could be on its way launching yet another popular hatchback in India.
Meanwhile, the second largest passenger car manufacturer in India has reported a drop of 5.9 per cent in its sales for July 2013. As compared to July 2012, wherein Hyundai India sold 52845 units, it sales for July 2013 stood at 48704 units. Its exports too registered a decline of 9.9 per cent during July 2013 as compared to last year. However, with the launch of four new cars by next year - a compact SUV, all new i15, new Eon and new i10, Hyundai India is expecting to counter the decline in sales and maintain its position in the Indian car market.
