Hyundai will expand its SUV range in India with a
new entry-level model next year named the Hyundai Carlino (code: Hyundai QXi).
Rendering artist Shoeb R Kalania has presented his depiction of the Hyundai
Carlino using the brand’s latest design DNA for SUVs.
The Hyundai Carlino in the latest speculative
rendering features Hyundai’s Composite Light - a design consisting of slim LED
DRLs positioned on top of the LED headlights. In other words, Composite Light
is the South Korean’s branding for twin headlamp design. Introduced in the
Hyundai Kona last year, this signature design element is observed on the
Hyundai Nexo and the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe.
Spy shots have shown that the USA-bound global spec
Hyundai A-CUV will also have the Composite Light, and we expect the Hyundai
Carlino to feature this illumination setup. Needless to report, the signature
Cascading grille is a confirmed feature.
The Hyundai Carlino will slot below the Hyundai
Creta as a more affordable, sub-4 metre SUV. Reports say that Hyundai will
offer it with three engine options: 1.0-litre T-GDI turbocharged petrol,
1.2-litre Kappa naturally aspirated gasoline and 1.4-litre U2 CRDi turbocharged
diesel.
The 1.2-litre petrol and 1.4-litre diesel engines are already offered
on the Hyundai i20 among other vehicles, while the new 1.0-litre petrol engine
is new for our market. The 1.0-litre T-GDI petrol engine is said to deliver 120
PS and 117 Nm of torque. Another expected highlight is the 5-speed ‘Smart Auto’
automated manual transmission from the Hyundai AH2.
The Hyundai Carlino will compete directly with the
Maruti Vitara Brezza, Ford EcoSport and Mahindra S201 in India. Its launch will
take place in April 2019. Prices could start between INR 6-7 lakh
(ex-showroom).
