Hyundai ix25-based crossover spotted testing near Chennai

​Hyundai hit the bulls eye with the new i20, it’s most-recent model in India that has gone on to become a blockbuster. But, there is one more launch in pipeline that promises to elevate the South Korean manufacturer to the next league. It’s launch would also mark Hyundai’s much-awaited entry into the mass-market crossovers and utility vehicles. At present, the expensive Santa Fe is the only Hyundai SUV on sale with the rest of the portfolio being hatchbacks and sedans. 

Based on the ix25 crossover that went on sale in China last year, the upcoming Hyundai crossover will lock horns with the Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and, to an extent, Ford Ecosport as well. Crucially, the ix25 measures more than 4 meters in length and wouldn't qualify for excise duty concessions that the Ecosport enjoys. Through the blurred corners of these shots, it is evident that the ix25 compares favorably with the Maruti-Suzuki Ertiga next to it. If reports in other automotive websites are to be believed, the ix25 will get a few India-specific styling elements and a new name when it debuts here later this year.

Spotted testing right outside Hyundai’s facility at Irrungattukottai near Chennai, the test car was covered with thick camouflage. What's interesting is the luggage-carrier fitted onto the roof with a couple of travel bags in tow as well. Is that some kind of load testing going on up there? We aren't sure. Sporting the second iteration of Hyundai’s popular ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design philosophy, the ix25 looks stylish and sharp. Neither is it as polarizing as the Ecosport nor is it as mundane as the Duster. Typical Hyundai design elements such as a large hexagonal grille with chrome slats, swept-back headlights and an upward-sloping window line would all be present, making this one stylish crossover. 

Amongst others, expect the ix25 to boast class-leading interior quality, fit and finish with tons of features and gizmos. While Hyundai hasn't confirmed anything yet, the ix25 might share its engines and transmissions with the Verna sedan. While the lower 1.4-liter variants might or might not come, the 1.6-liter petrol and diesel engines from the Verna would definitely find their way under the hood of the ix25. Like the Verna, both the petrol and diesel engines might come with the option of a manual or automatic transmission. An All Wheel Drive option, at least in the top-end variant, would make the ix25 a great package.

From what we see in the Chinese version, the ix25 looks like a mini Santa Fe, more so when viewed head on. The Indian version wouldn't look much different, so don't have your fingers crossed. So, are we looking at yet another success story for Hyundai in India? Oh yeah, we think so!