India-bound Hyundai AX1 spied up close

Spy images of the Hyundai AX1, the new micro-SUV from the Korean carmaker, give us an idea of features that we can expect from the upcoming Tata HBX rival.

The Hyundai AX1 has been spied upon once again in the international market. The images that have surfaced over the internet give us a peek inside the new micro-SUV. Along with the interior, the spy images also reveal a few other details of the Hyundai AX1.

The Hyundai AX1 will be the most affordable (crossover) SUV in the company’s line-up and will compete with the soon expected Tata HBX and the Maruti Suzuki Ignis in the Indian market.

The new images reveal that Hyundai will offer the AX1 with white seats; however, other plastic bits in the cabin area will be of dark colours. The white-and-black combination is likely to appeal to the masses, as it gives the cabin a premium feel. There is also a centre armrest for passengers in the front row.

The rear bench design hints that it can accommodate only two passengers. The images do not reveal a seat belt buckle or a headrest for the middle passenger, which hints towards the fact that the AX1 could be a four-seater micro-SUV. That said, these images are not of the India-spec model. So, when the AX1 debuts in India, it will be offered with a redesigned rear bench for three passengers.

According to the spy images, the Hyundai AX1 is equipped with 17-inch wheels shod with low-profile tyres. This could result in very harsh and unpleasant ride quality, given the Indian road conditions. Therefore, the Indian version of the micro-SUV is likely to get 16-inch wheels as an option, which will be shod with beefier tyres.

The images also show a disc-brake setup on all four wheels. Hyundai India is likely to give it a miss to keep the price in check, and instead, it will offer a drum brake setup at the rear.

Coming to the design bit, the rear door handles are flushed with the C-pillar of the AX1. This, in turn, will offer a tidy and flush look for the rear door.

The powertrain is likely to be the 1.2-litre petrol engine for global markets, and the Indian market could also see an addition of a 1.1-litre diesel engine on offer. The standard gearbox on offer will be a 5-speed manual and an optional automatic (AMT) is likely to be available as well.

The prices for the Hyundai AX1 could begin from Rs 4.75 lakh (ex-showroom), which means that the new micro SUV is likely to undercut the Maruti Suzuki Ignis marginally. Expect the new Korean micro SUV to make its debut by the end of this year.

Also Read:

Hyundai AX1 micro SUV teased

Hyundai AX1 micro SUV spied, global debut soon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPD8_s4ctLM