- Hyundai has been preparing the sub-compact SUV codenamed Ai3 to rival the Tata Punch in our market.
- However, it won’t be on display at the Auto Expo 2023.
- The launch is slated for September 2023 in India.
The Hyundai Ai3 micro-SUV rivalling the Tata Punch has given the Auto Expo 2023 a miss. Hyundai has showcased tons of products including facelifts and new-gen versions of the existing cars. But the concept sub-compact SUV that will be positioned below Venue is not present at the event. However, Hyundai says that the launch will take place around September 2023. It is slightly larger than the Casper that is sold in Korea which might also mean that it will have a longer wheelbase.
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Hyundai Ai3 – Tata Punch Rival
The Ai3 is a close relative of the Casper micro SUV which also influences the way it will look, to some extent. The front fascia will feature a modern setup with LED DRLs at the top of the bonnet and the main headlights on the bumper below, the bonnet will be upright informing the SUV-ish stance, the wheel arches will be chunky and the side pillars might be blacked out. The door handle will be placed in the traditional position and not on the side pillars as some modern cars. At the rear, the taillamps will have a sharpness to them ditching the round shape.
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Platform and Dimensions
The Ai3 micro-SUV will be based on the same platform as the Grand i10 Nios hatchback. Essentially, it could be regarded as the SUV version of the Grand i10 Nios. Its dimensions are expected to be around 3.8 m with a wheelbase of around 2.45 m. This will help liberate tons of space inside the cabin. Ai3 being a Hyundai will get the latest tech and convenience features in the cabin including a touchscreen infotainment screen and connected car tech. More detailed information will be released by Hyundai only closer to the launch.
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Specs
The Ai3 will most likely be powered by the same powertrain as the Grand i10 Nios. This means that it could get a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. The former makes 83 PS and 113 Nm, while the latter is good for 100 PS and 172 Nm of peak power and torque. There will be options of a 5-speed MT or an AMT gearbox. However, there will most likely be no diesel engine on offer. What are your thoughts on the Tata Punch-rivalling Hyundai Ai3?
