Hyundai Casper could be the name of brand’s upcoming smallest SUV

KUALA LUMPUR: It’s no secret that Hyundai is working on a new micro-SUV (AX1) destined for the home as well as the Indian market, whose official name is still under the hat. However, some international media reports are claiming that the upcoming Hyundai SUV will be called ‘Casper’ as the company has just trademarked this moniker in South Korea. 

Also, the upcoming model is said to be the brand’s smallest, and latest entry-level SUV, expected to make its debut sometime this year. It is likely to be based on Hyundai's K1 compact car platform, which already underpins the Grand i10 Nios and Santro available in India. The dimensions may span around 3,595 mm in length, 1,595 mm in width, and 1,575 mm in height. 

As far as the design is concerned, the SUV’s spy shots continue to surface over the internet, revealing the car’s certain design elements. On the exterior, the small SUV boasts a rectangular-shaped front grille featuring triangle inserts, split headlights, alloy wheels, roof rails, door handles on C-pillars, rear fog lamps, and a roof spoiler.

Inside, the SUV is likely to be equipped with a whole bunch of premium features in a true Hyundai fashion. These may include a big touchscreen infotainment system, a semi-digital instrument cluster, connected car technology, wireless phone charger, auto air-conditioning, leather seats, and keyless entry. As for safety, the SUV could have dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors with a camera.

On the mechanical front, Hyundai's upcoming SUV might have three engine options, including a 1.2-litre petrol unit capable of generating maximum power of 83 PS and a peak torque of 114 Nm. Another could be a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol good for making 100 PS and 172 Nm or a 1.2-litre diesel mill with 75 PS 190 Nm. A 5-speed manual gearbox is likely to come as standard across all the powertrains.

In the Indian market, the SUV may retail at a starting price of Rs 6,00,000 (approximately equal to RM 34,063). 

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