Production-spec Hyundai ix25 crossover spotted

The compact crossover segment is a busy little field with the arrival of newer rivals from a variety of automakers. After the launch of the Renault Duster, Ford EcoSport, Honda Vezel and the likes, it’s the turn of the Korean automaker Hyundai to make an entry into this hotly contested segment with the new ix25.   

The ix25 first made its debut as a concept at the 2014 Beijing Auto Show. Designed using Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design theme, the concept showed off its muscular new design and received much appreciation from the crowd. Now, a production-spec ix25 has been spotted in China, ahead of the vehicle’s local launch in October. 

Hyundai has kept most of the intriguing design elements of the concept. The ix25, as a result, features sweptback headlamps, a hexagonal grille, large fog lamp inserts on the bumper and a silver skid plate. At the rear, the vehicle features wrap-around tail lamps and a large bumper with twin reflectors.

The ix25 will be manufactured in China by the Beijing-Hyundai joint venture. Expected to be powered by either a 1.6-litre or a 2-litre petrol engine, the crossover will also be available with an all-wheel drive option. The ix25 will compete with the Ford Ecosport and the upcoming Volkswagen Taigun in China.

Although the ix25 is destined to be sold only in China, Hyundai could introduce it in some of the European markets. As for the Indian market, the Korean automaker may well take the plunge in the ever growing compact crossover segment presently dominated by the Ford EcoSport and the Renault Duster.

Source: paulton