The popular Tata Punch is about to encounter a fierce rival in the form of a micro SUV from Hyundai that has been spied under the AX1 moniker for a while now.
The Tata Punch-rivalling Hyundai micro SUV has been spied testing again. The launch might take place by the end of the year. The heavily camouflaged test mule was seen in its native market, South Korea. In fact, testing has been undergoing since a long time. The trend of micro SUVs is gaining momentum as small SUV-style offerings are entering our markets. Punch is a prime example of how successful a vehicle in this segment can be. Let’s see if Hyundai can achieve the same level of success with the AX1 (will possibly be called Casper) or not.
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Punch-Rivalling Hyundai Micro SUV
These spy shots capture an upright micro SUV with modern design language. It includes a sleek LED DRL setup on the bonnet and round headlamps on the bumper with a large grille separating them. The bumper at the front is quite sporty as well and the bonnet lends a butch appearance. The creases (or lack thereof) are not visible in these spy images but the stylish and modern alloys are painted black to lend a sporty look.
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At the rear, the taillamps will also sport a modern theme, making it look a bit upmarket. Similarly, the interior layout would be designed in such a way as to please the customers but also lend it a modern vibe. Being a Hyundai product, the AX1 is expected to come loaded with the latest features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Connectivity Functions, Connected Car Tech Features, Digital or Semi-Digital Driver’s Instrument Cluster, Steering-Mounted Controls and more.
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Specs
To keep costs in check, Hyundai could power the AX1 with the same engine as the now discontinued Santro (a 1.1-litre petrol engine), making 68 hp and 99 Nm of peak power and torque. Moreover, there could also be the 1.2-litre petrol engine that powers the Grand i10 Nios making 83 hp and 113 Nm of peak power and torque. We expect the transmission duties to be carried out by a 5-speed manual or an automatic gearbox. If it aims to rival the likes of Punch, the prices could be expected to be around Rs 5 lakh to Rs 9 lakh, ex-showroom.
