When South Korean auto-major Hyundai showcased i30 in India at the Auto Expo earlier this year, it was thought to be signs of an imminent launch. But it now looks like there are no such plans. If the emerging reports are anything to go by, Hyundai thinks that i30 is not a feasible option for the Indian market.
Well, now why do they think so? It is because i30 is a premium hatchback and if brought to India, it would have to be priced closer to Elantra and as the saying goes curiosity will kill the cat.
According to Indian Autos Blog, the current market condition in India is not suitable to introduce an expensive hatchback, even though Hyundai has plans to bring the premium products to India. Hyundai currently has Elite i20 and i20 Active in its India portfolio and the gap between the two is too thin to accommodate a new hatchback.
Hyundai Tucson SUV is the next in line for launch in India. Tucson was earlier scheduled for launch on October 24. However, the company has now pushed the launch to November due to unavoidable reasons.
Coming back to i30, Hyundai had revealed the new generation i30 hatchback at the recently concluded Paris Motor Show. The third generation of the model is the first Hyundai vehicle to get the new turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol motor that develops 138hp. There's also a naturally aspirated 1.4-litre unit with 98hp output and a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder making 118hp.
The 1.6-litre diesel mill is available in three states of tune- 94hp, 109 hp and 134hp. Engines are coupled with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The new i30 comes with a host of features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and wireless charging. On the safety front, the hatchback flaunts Autonomous Emergency Braking, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Driver Attention Alert and Blind Spot Detection.
