The India spec ix25 will be sharing its powertrain with the Verna, but it is unclear as yet if Hyundai will offer the compact SUV with all-wheel drive like the China version.

2015 Hyundai ix25 Ford EcoSport Testing
The Hyundai ix25 was testing with the EcoSport and Duster for internal benchmarking

Launched last year in China, the ix25 compact SUV will be Hyundai India’s major launch for the year scheduled during the festive season. The Korean automaker has already commenced testing the compact SUV since last year in the country and the model was recently spotted on one of its test runs in Belgaum, Karnataka. The two spied mules were being tested alongside its segment rivals the Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster visibly in their range-topping trims most likely for internal benchmarking.

Internally codenamed as ‘GS’ by Hyundai India, the ix25 spotted was wearing heavy camouflage but managed to give out the vital details on the upcoming SUV. Both the test mules were equipped with LED daytime running lights and projector lamps, ORVMs with integrated turn indicators and roof rails. In terms of differentiation though, one test mule was running with alloy wheels whereas the other had steel rims.

As visible in the images, the Hyundai ix25 is noticeably larger than the EcoSport with a length of around 4.2-metres and measures very similar to the Renault Duster in terms of overall dimensions. The engine options on the ix25 will feature the same 1.6-litre petrol and diesel motors from the Verna sedan and will come paired to the 6-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions. An upgrade to the 6-speed automatic from the Elantra will be highly appreciated though.

Making its presence felt more effectively in the SUV space, Hyundai had earlier stated that the company has allocated Rs. 1000 crores for two of its upcoming SUVs including the i20 Cross as well as the ix25 and get 90 percent localization to keep the prices extremely competitive. We expect a whole lot of features inside the cabin including the panoramic sunroof, leather seats, touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and much more on offer that is currently China spec version.

2015 Hyundai ix25 Spied
The top-sec variant spotted was loaded with all the bells and whistles
Hyundai ix25 Spied LED DRLs
LED DRLs and projector headlamps will be standard across the range
Hyundai ix25 Spied Interior
The cabin will be feature loaded and takes inspiration from the Santa Fe for the layout
Hyundai ix25 Spy Shot
The 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines from Verna will also do duty on the ix25
Hyundai ix25 Rear Seat Spied
Rear seat ingress and egress seems average with decent space on offer

Source – Team-BHP.com