Hyundai's baby SUV spotted testing for the first time

Hyundai's baby SUV was caught testing in Death Valley recently, with what appears to be production-ready body panels and lights. This further confirms earlier reports that Hyundai will introduce a small SUV in the American market next year.

Look wise, the A-SUV (a codename is unknown) appears to take inspiration from the Hyundai Kona. However, where the Kona is more soft-roader in looks, the A-SUV appears butch with its slightly boxier design and Creta-inspired windows and C-pillars.

Hyundai Latin America’s product specialist, Armando Cardoso, said in an interview this month that the small SUV will feature city car proportions with an SUV design, and that it will ride on an all-new platform. Depending on the market, the A-SUV will slot either below the Hyundai Creta or Hyundai Kona, though based on reports it appears Hyundai has a separate plan for the USA. Reports state that A-SUV will slowly replace the Hyundai Accent in the U.S. market where buyers increasingly prefer crossovers and SUVs over sedans and hatchbacks.

The A-SUV will likely be offered with the Accent's 1.6-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine developing 130 hp and paired to 6-speed MT and AT 'boxes. A front-wheel drive will be the mainstay though an optional AWD could be introduced as well.

Also See: India-bound 2019 Hyundai Elantra (facelift) spotted camo-free

For the Indian market though, Hyundai is working on the Hyundai Carlino (codename: Hyundai QXi), a sub-4 metre SUV which will rival the like of the Ford EcoSport and Maruti Vitara Brezza. It is expected in the Indian market in H1 2019 with 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol and 1.4-litre U2 CRDi diesel being the likely engine options.

Hyundai Carlino concept - Image Gallery

[Source - Motor1.com]