Hyundai has just showcased the next generation Hyundai Verna in China at 2016 Chengdu Motor show and will be launched in India in H2 of the next year. If reports are to be believed, the South Korean automajor is planning for mild hybrid version of the new Gen Verna sedan. Also, Hyundai might launch blue drive hybrid version of Tucson SUV by end of next year.
Maruti Suzuki offers this technology with some of its cars; it is called Smart hybrid vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS). This technology includes auto start stop function, integrated starter kit and brake energy regeneration which allows car to deliver better fuel efficiency. New Verna will feature regenerative braking which converted into power and stored in car’s battery. The integrated starter generator (ISG) utilizes the stored energy from regenerative braking and propels the car get going after stand still position.
Owing to this technology, Maruti Ciaz dominates the segment along with Honda City. Both the sedans have been retailing around 5000 units a month while current Verna sells 1700-2000 units of their individual numbers. Besides better mileage, hybrid tech allows brand to price the car competitively thanks to government subsidies. Maruti Ciaz enjoys FAME India initiative and this is the reason why Ciaz’s diesel trims are priced much lower than Honda City. Equipping mild hybrid in Verna comes at a right time as government is planning to bring Euro IV norms in India soon.
The current Verna is available in four engine options: 1.4l VTVT petrol, 1.6l VTVT petrol, 1.4l CRDi diesel and 1.6l CRDi diesel. Transmission options include a six speed manual and a four speed automatic gearbox. The engines are likely to remain same on the 2017 Verna as well.
Speaking about design, New Hyundai Verna will be eye catchy and sportier than before thanks to Hyundai’s new 2.0 design philosophy. It will sport new front grille wrapped in chrome, new headlight cluster with LED daytime running lights, new front and rear bumpers and LED tail lights. New Verna measures 4440mm in length longer by 30mm than the current model.
In terms of features, it will get i20 inspired multi function steering wheel, advanced touchscreen system with GPS navigation, Apple car play, Android auto, bluetooth, USB, Aux-in, reverse parking camera, automatic climate control and much more. Besides New Verna, Hyundai will also launch Grand i10 and Xcent facelift versions in 2017 followed by all new Santro in 2018 and will replace i10.
