The next-gen Kia Carnival (codename: Kia
KA4) will have a sister model from the Hyundai brand. A new trademark
application indicates that this upcoming MPV will likely be named Hyundai
Custo. The Hyundai Custo has a silhouette very similar to that of the 2021 Kia
Carnival. Spy shots suggest that the former’s front and rear fascias will look
completely different from those of the latter. Spy shots have already revealed
that it’s going to feature a huge cascading grille with plenty of chrome
inserts.
Inside, the Hyundai Custo minivan is
likely going to be even more different from the 2021 Kia Carnival. Spy shots
have revealed that Hyundai is using individually designed door panels and
steering wheel. The latter is the same flat-bottomed unit that is currently
used in the 2020 Hyundai Creta. A circular version of the same is offered in
the 2021 Hyundai Elantra (2021 Hyundai Avante).
Spy shots have also shown captain seats in
the second row and a compact climate control panel with two AC vents, located
in the rear portion of the floor console, for the passengers occupying those
them. The dashboard and centre console also should have a unique design.
Under the hood, the Hyundai Custo may have
a 2.0-litre T-GDi turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. It could be the
same unit that is employed in the China-only Hyundai Santa Fe long-wheelbase.
This unit produces 240 PS and 353 Nm of torque. It is available
with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Hyundai Custo will likely be a
China-only model. For the rest of the world, including India, Hyundai Motor
Group will continue having only the Kia Carnival in the minivan space.
