Hyundai Ai3 Micro SUV teased for the first time, launch imminent

Hyundai’s supposed micro SUV for the Indian market, Hyundai Ai3, has been teased for the first time by the automaker. Ai3 is the internal codename for the SUV that Hyundai is working with for now. This micro SUV is set to rival Tata Punch in India. While the teaser doesn’t reveal anything of significance, we do have some details about Hyundai’s upcoming offering.

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Hyundai Ai3 Micro SUV: What we know so far

Hyundai India posted a promotional image that shows a rearview mirror with the reflection of a bunch of leopards. The title reads ‘An all-new SUV to take you places’, which confirms that the launch is imminent. It is believed that the SUV in question is the new Hyundai Ai3.

The Ai3 began its road tests in India last month. Previously, the SUV was spotted in South Korea. It is underpinned by the same platform as Grand i10 Nios and Hyundai Casper (which is sold overseas). The Hyundai Ai3 looks like a more sporty version of the Casper, with some modifications for the Indian market. 

Up front, the split headlamp setup and LED DRLs look similar to the one on Hyundai Venue. In profile, the Hyundai Ai3 looks similar to the Casper. The positioning of the door handles is different on the Ai3. The round tail lamps on the Casper have been ditched for a more favourable design on Hyundai Ai3.

Based on the K1 platform, the Hyundai Ai3 is expected to be 3.7 metres long. It will get a bigger wheelbase than the Casper, exceeding it by 50mm in length. Hyundai Casper Casper stands at dimensions of 3595mm x 1595mm x 1575mm and has a wheelbase of 2400mm.

In terms of interior styling, the Hyundai Ai3 may look similar to Grand i10 Nios. It is expected to get an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument console, six airbags, and more. The Ai3 will also get an electric sunroof, which is a great feature for this category.

Under the hood, Hyundai Ai3 will share its engine with Grand i10 Nios and Hyundai Venue. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine can produce a maximum power output of 81hp and 114Nm peak torque. There will be manual and automatic transmissions on offer. Hyundai may also introduce a CNG variant of the Ai3 down the line. There will be no diesel powertrain.

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Conclusion

Now that Hyundai has dropped the first teaser for Ai3, the micro SUV’s launch is imminent in the coming weeks. Hyundai will routinely drop new teasers leading up to the launch, just like it did with the recently released 2023 Verna. Upon launch, Hyundai Ai3 will rival the likes of Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Suzuki Fronx.

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