Overall conditions might not be favourable for the Indian car market, but there seems to be a silver lining in this dark cloud. On one hand where automobile manufacturers are struggling to meet ends in terms of sales and revenue, model like Ford EcoSport is enjoying a high level of success. The Ford EcoSport is a compact Sports Utility Vehicle that recently hit Indian roads, generating a tremendous response from critics and buyers. Even before the EcoSport was launched, there was a lot of hype and excitement created around it. Industry experts are touting Ford EcoSport to pip all other competitors in the compact SUV segment of the Indian market, such as Renault Duster, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Mahindra Quanto.
This rise has triggered a response from several other auto companies, who are planning to launch their compact SUVs to cater the rising demand. Nissan is expected to launch the Terrano by the end of 2013, whereas Volkswagen and Honda are also working on their respective compact SUVs. Hyundai, the South Korean auto maker, recently announced its plans of introducing a compact SUV that will be pitched against the Ford EcoSport. In an interesting development, test models of the Hyundai's upcoming model were spotted doing rounds in South Korea.
According to the images, the new Hyundai vehicle was found to be similar to the Kia Provo. The test car that was spotted had a stocky C Pillar and a sloping roof line. Some experts also believe that the design of this vehicle has been borrowed from the Hyundai Curb Concept that was showcased at Detroit Auto Show in 2011. It is expected to sport the signature hexagonal grille, which is typical for Hyundai vehicles. As far as the rear is concerned, the Hyundai compact SUV might feature a wraparound windscreen, along with tail lights extending to fenders.
However, no information has been revealed in terms of the engine that will power this new Hyundai vehicle. However, industry experts are of the opinion that the South Korean auto maker is likely to introduce a mix of petrol and diesel engine variants. Hyundai India already has plans of introducing multiple vehicles in the domestic car market in the near future. Given the kind of demand and success of other compact SUVs, Hyundai's yet to be launched car can make an impact. The ploy of pitching the new car against Ford EcoSport might be a good one, considering Hyundai's stronghold in the Indian car market.
