Hyundai unveils first images of Grand i10; three cylinder diesel engine on offer

Hyundai India has finally revealed official images of the much awaited Grand i10 (code name BA) hatchback which will be offered with 1.1-litre three cylinder diesel engine. The car will be positioned as an entry level diesel model in the company’s India line up, sitting between the i10 and the i20.

The Grand i10 which was speculated to be named as the i15, is in reality resembles closer to the i20 contradicting what its name suggests. The car is 100mm longer and wider than the i10 and wide enough to sit three abreast.

The design language follows the fluidic philosophy and flaunts crisp features and lines. The trademark hexagonal grille, stretched headlamps and a new fog lamp-DRL cluster defines the refreshed facia. The sides are relatively toned down and are defined by a sole crease along the door handle. A rear lip spoiler and a new taillight cluster completes the external design of the Grand i10.

The interior details and the engine specifications will be revealed closer to the official launch in September but word has come out that the car will feature a rear AC vent, a luxury not found on the i20. But it is confirmed that the car will be powered by the familiar 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine along with the new 1.1-litre three cylinder diesel motor speculated to produce roughly 75PS of power.

Hyundai will target the Ford Figo and the Maruti Suzuki Swift and Ritz models with the launch of the new car. Squeezing the model between the i10 and the i20 may lead to internal cannibalising of sales but what is interesting to see is the impact it will create on its competitors.