Hyundai is readying a brand new super-compact, micro SUV/crossover based on the Grand i10 Nios platform. Going by the latest spy images from abroad, this new micro SUV, codenamed the Hyundai AX1 is likely to feature quirky and unique styling with headlamps positioned lower on the front bumper and the LED DRLs with turn indicators mounted on top.

 

 

The overall profile is quite upright with a steeply raked windshield and a boxy silhouette. The rear door handles are likely to be positioned on the C-pillars and the new car is expected to feature 16” alloy wheels.

The top-spec variants are expected to feature projector headlamps, touchscreen system, automatic climate control and smart key access with push-button start.

 

The new Hyundai AX1 could be powered either by the 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine from the Santro or the 1.2L Kappa petrol from the Grand i10 Nios. The 1.0L turbocharged petrol unit from the Nios/Aura Turbo can also be expected. Transmission options could include a 5 speed Manual as standard with the 1.2L petrol receiving a CVT automatic too.

The Hyundai AX1 is being developed for India along with other South-East Asian markets. In India, the new micro SUV could compete with the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso, the upcoming Tata HBX and the Mahindra KUV100.

The Skoda Kamiq 2021 was recently spotted testing in India and that too, without a camouflage! We like this confident approach of Skoda India, the car is going to be introduced in the country soon so, might as well reveal it anyways. Unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2019, the Kamiq is already available in global markets. The SUV shares its MQV A0 platform with the Volkswagen T-ROC. 

Images reveal a rather nice, less flamboyant look of the Skoda Kamiq when compared to its rivals- the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, Nissan Kicks, MG Hector and the Kia Seltos. The front

houses a split LED headlamp setup with a signature butterfly shaped grille in the center while the bottom features a large air intake on the bumper. The rear profile of the car too looks balanced with elements being subtle and un-jazzy. Inverted L shaped LED tail lights and an ‘off- roady’ black cladded bumper make the Kamiq look quite nice.

The India based Kamiq would mostly be identical in dimension when compared to the Euro- spec version as it would be a CBU unit. A few extra features that specifically cater to the European buyers would be eliminated to keep the cost as low as possible. So, one could expect the prices to hover around 12 to 20 Lakhs Ex- showroom India. 

While the international- spec Skoda Kamiq comes with three engine options, the India spec Kamiq is expected to get the new 1.5 Litre TSI petrol engine that produces 148 BHP and 250 NM of torque. Those are good numbers, especially when you compare it to its rivals that don’t match up in this department. This engine will be mated to the creamy 7- Speed DSG gearbox. 

The Kamiq is rumoured to be launched around the third quarter of 2021 but things would mostly depend on when the Covid-19 pandemic situation. There are no plans of Skoda or Volkwagen offering diesel powertrains yet. However, petrol engines being offered by the brands – 1.0L TSI and the 1.5L TSI offer drivers a great driving experience. 

Stay tuned for further update and please follow us on WhatsApp , Instagram and YouTube. 

Renault has released a teaser of its new compact SUV, currently named the Kiger. This new compact SUV shares the underpinnings and engine options with the upcoming Nissan Magnite compact SUV. Here are some clear details on what to expect:

Variants:

Similar to the Renault Triber, the Kiger too is likely to be available in four variants, namely the RXE, RXL, RXT and RXZ. 

Exterior:

Going by the Spy images, the Kiger is likely to feature a coupe-like profile with modern design elements. The front fascia will feature a large signature Renault

grille flanked by multifunction LEDs whereas the actual tri-beam LED headlamps with be located lower on the front bumper, similar to the Renault Kwid and the Tata Harrier.

The Kiger will receive prominent body cladding and large squarish wheel arches which will be filled by standard 16” wheels. The higher-spec variants are also likely to receive a dual-tone roof option and silver roof rails. At the back, the Kiger will receive unique looking 3D tail lamps which resemble those on a few European models, a clean tailgate and a dual-tone bumper.

Interior:

The interior is likely to carry forward a few parts from the Triber including the centrally mounted 8” touchscreen, the centre console switches, buttons and the glovebox console too. The steering wheel is likely to be a brand new unit along with the digital instrument cluster.

Features expected on the top-spec variants include:

• LED headlamps and tail lamps

• LED fog lamps

• Rear wiper/washer

• Rear defogger

• Roof rails

• 16’ alloy wheels

• 8” touchscreen system

• Android Auto/ Apple car play

• Reverse camera

• Auto climate control

• Cruise control

• Digital instrument cluster

• Smart key access

• Push-button start

• Front and rear armrests

• Rear AC vents

• 60:40 split-folding rear seat

 

Safety features will include:

• 4 Airbags

• ABS with EBD

• Pretensioner seatbelts

• Smart key access

• ESP with traction control

• Hill hold control

 

Powertrains:

Similar to the Nissan Magnite, the Renault Kiger will be available with two engine options. The first will be the 1.0L Energy series, 3 cyl naturally aspirated engine from the Renault Triber, producing 72PS Power through a 5-speed manual gearbox. The second powertrain will be a new 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol unit producing around 100PS through either a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox.

Pricing:

The new Renault Kiger will be launched with pricing by January 2021 and is also likely to be priced very aggressively with an expected starting price of Rs.5.5L ex-showroom for the entry-level non-turbo variant. The fully loaded top-spec variant is expected to be priced equivalent to the Nissan Magnite. When launched, the Kiger will go against the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Ford Ecosport, Mahindra XUV300 and the Honda WRV as well. 

Stay tuned for further updates on the Renault Kiger.