Hyundai is developing a new micro-SUV dubbed AX1. The micro-production SUV’s name, Casper, has finally been disclosed. The manufacturer has showcased the exteriors for South Korea. Although prices are yet to be revealed, Hyundai has begun accepting pre-orders for the upcoming micro-SUV. In late 2021 or early 2022, Casper is scheduled to be released in India. Hyundai has not announced the debut date as of yet.
The Hyundai Casper
The front end is based on the Hyundai Venue, a small SUV. A prominent grille with triangular parts can be found upfront. The grille runs the length of the vehicle. Large circular headlamps with a round LED Daytime Running Lamp surround The turn indicators positioned above and have a black frame that matches the black strip that houses the Hyundai emblem.
A false skid plate and a flat bonnet add to the SUV’s appearance. There are significant squared-off wheel arches with black plastic covering on the sides. There are new 6-spoke alloy wheels that we do not believe will be supplied in India because they may have a detrimental impact on ride quality due to our poor roads.
Roof rails are also included, and the rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillar. The Casper now appears to have three doors. The Maruti Suzuki Swift and the Tata Altroz both have such door handles. The design on the back is extremely unique. A wide glass area is included, with the brake lights integrated into it. The brake lights are also triangular in shape. The bumper houses the reverse lights and turn indicators, which are spherical in shape.
Hyundai Casper Dimension and Features
There’s also an electronic sunroof, indicating that this is a high-end model. The lesser trim levels will be devoid of a sunroof, alloy wheels, roof rails, and a shark-fin antenna, as well as a unique grille design. Casper will have a length of 3,595 mm, a width of 1,595 mm, and a height of 1,575 mm. It will be built on the same K1 platform that underpins the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, Santro, and Kia Picanto.
The Casper will have a white interior, which appears a lot more premium than other compact hatchbacks or micro-SUVs, according to leaked spy pictures. An 8-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be available. The steering wheel, which will be a two-spoke unit, will also be brand new. The multi-information display, phone controls, and the infotainment system will all be controlled by buttons. As with the i10, Grand i10, Xcent, and Aura, the gear lever will be integrated into the dashboard.
Powertrain
The Casper will be available in South Korea with two petrol engine options. Both will have three cylinders and a displacement of 1.0 litres. The naturally aspirated engine will have a maximum power output of 76 PS, while the turbocharged engine will have a maximum power output of 100 PS. Both engines will come standard with a four-speed automatic transmission.
The engine options in India could be different. Hyundai could use the 1.1-litre engine from the Santro or the 1.2-litre engine from the Grand i10 Nios. The 1.0-litre turbocharged engine could be available on higher trim levels. The engines will come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, but an automatic transmission will also be available. Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Ignis, and Mahindra KUV100 will fight against the Casper.
