Daily News Capsule

The Hyundai AX1 is the codename for the Korean automaker’s upcoming micro SUV. The official name is now hidden away in a safe in Seoul. However, the automaker has teased the AX1 SUV with a couple of obscure teaser images, implying that a full unveiling is on the way.

Hyundai hasn’t committed to any particular requirements or features for the time being. The only real proof we have is the test mule photos and the two teaser images. However, for the time being, all we can do is look back at patterns to see what Hyundai may have in store for the AX1.

• The AX1 will be a subcompact SUV that will sit below the Venue. The AX1 will be a global product, similar to the Location, but we believe it will be in higher demand in India, Asia, and Africa. The AX1 will be a subcompact SUV that will sit below the Venue. The AX1 will be a global product, similar to the Location, but we believe it will be in higher demand in India, Asia, and Africa. In terms of the Hyundai AX1, there are two potential possibilities for the Indian market.

The first choice for Hyundai will be to make the AX1 micro SUV a budget vehicle. Keep costs as low as possible, equip it with the bare essentials, and position it in the same firing line as the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso, Renault Kwid, and Datsun Redi-Go.

The second choice available to Hyundai is to place the AX1 half a step higher to bridge the gap between micro SUVs like the S-Presso and Kwid while also attempting to steal market share from models like the Mahindra KUV 100 NXT, Maruti Suzuki Ignis, and the upcoming Tata HBX in a higher segment.

• Hyundai has a few motors in its arsenal when it comes to matters of the heart. However, it will all depend on how Hyundai packages and prices the micro SUV. Hyundai has the 1.1-liter 4-cylinder engine since the model would be placed in a similar role to the current Santro.

The engine’s roots are, however, very ancient, and Hyundai has a line of new engines on hand. The other choice is a two-engine configuration, with the lower-spec 1.0-litre GDI engine and the higher-spec 1.0-liter Turbo-GDI engine (tuned to 99bhp) engine. Furthermore, the 1.2-liter petrol engine from the Grand i10 Nios may be a contender for Hyundai to use in the AX1.

Regardless of which engine route Hyundai chooses, a manual transmission option will be available as standard. It’s likely that the latest iMT will be available with the AX1 if the GDI or Turbo GDI engines are selected. The other two engine choices might be compatible with the Santro and Grand i10 Nios’ automated manual transmissions.

Keep reading the Daily News Capsule for more updated news.