Hyundai Starts Testing New Compact SUV for India
Bottom line: Hyundai has begun road‑testing a rugged‑looking compact SUV tailored for Indian buyers, aiming to compete with the popular Kia Seltos and Tata Nexon.

Hyundai New Compact SUV for India – Design, Mileage, Price & Launch Details
Image: Hyundai New Compact SUV for India – Design, Mileage, Price & Launch Details – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The prototype sports bold, old‑school SUV proportions – a high beltline, flared wheel arches and a protective front grille. Hyundai has removed most of the camouflage, so the public can see the real styling. Inside, the cabin is expected to feature a large touchscreen, soft‑touch materials and rear‑seat space that feels roomy for a vehicle of this size. The design language mirrors Hyundai’s global “Sensuous Sportiness” but with tweaks for Indian road conditions, such as higher ground clearance and reinforced bumpers.
Performance & Mileage
While exact engine specs are still under wraps, industry insiders say the SUV will launch with a 1.5‑litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 6‑speed manual or a 6‑speed automatic. Hyundai is likely to target a fuel‑efficiency figure around 17‑18 km/l, which is competitive in the compact SUV segment.
| 1.5 L Petrol (expected) |
| ~17‑18 km/l |
| ₹9.5‑12 Lakh (estimated) |
|
Price & Rivals
Analysts predict a launch price between ₹9.5 and ₹12 lakh, placing the SUV squarely against the Kia Seltos, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300. Hyundai hopes the blend of rugged looks, reliable mileage and a feature‑rich cabin will attract first‑time SUV buyers as well as families looking to upgrade from hatchbacks.
FAQ
- What is the expected mileage of Hyundai’s new compact SUV? Around 17‑18 km per litre for the petrol variant.
- When will the SUV be available in India? Testing is underway; a market launch is expected in late 2026.
- Is the new Hyundai SUV worth buying against rivals? If you value a strong design, good fuel economy and a long list of tech features, it should be a compelling option.
What do you think about Hyundai’s new compact SUV? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: Read Official News







