Hyundai to Launch a New MPV Dubbed as 'IP'

Kuala Lumpur: Hyundai India would soon be launching a Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) by 2016 to add up to its passenger car portfolio. Most probably it would be dubbed as Hyundai 'IP'. Recently, Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL) chief coordinator of sales and marketing, Y J Ahn told 'Times of India' that design and other aspects of this MPV has been finalised and is slated to have its market launch next year.

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Apart from catering to the private passenger market, this MPV would also target taxi and fleet operators. It is designed to compete with the likes of Toyota Innova and Chevrolet Enjoy which are in huge demand among taxi operators. Until now, Hyundai was offering its compact sedan Xcent as the only car in taxi segment but now this new sedan would be a natural choice for taxi operators. Hyundai IP is expected to be based on the eight-seater 'Hexa Space concept' which was first revealed at the 2012 Auto Expo in India. Although this concept shared the same platform with ix20 but the new IP would be built on a different base which would cost less. Moreover, IP would also receive some parts from the Hyundai Creta, Grand i10 and Elite i20.

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Ahn said, “We will introduce an MPV in the Indian market to satisfy the needs of the consumers. It will take some time”.talking about the engines, it is expected to be powered by a 1.4-litre MPi petrol engine or CRDi engine. However, a larger 1.6-litre engine is also expected to be introduced afterwards. Further, it would be made available with both manual and automatic transmission.