Familiar nameplate set to return to SA soon

AT THE end of 2017, while discussing the then-new Grand i10 1-litre, a Hyundai representative casually mentioned that an all-new Atos was heading our way in 2019, also sourced from India, along with an EcoSport rivalling budget SUV.

Hyundai’s Indian division has now released the first pictures of said Atos, badged Santro in that market, although for now we only get to see the front and side views.

Said to be built on a new platform featuring 63 percent high strength steel, the Santro/Atos will slot below the current Grand i10 1.0 Motion, which currently retails at R159 900.

According to the Hyundai India website, the new compact hatch will be available with a 17.6cm touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as well as a rear parking camera - features you don’t expect in the budget segment.

It also mentions “best in class” air conditioning for those Indian summers, as well as segment-first rear aircon vents.

Local specs and pricing will be confirmed nearer to the time.

Power, according to Hyundai India, comes from a 1.1-litre four-cylinder engine, which will be available with an AMT (automated manual) gearbox option, but no outputs have been disclosed as yet. Standard safety kit in that market includes a driver’s airbag and ABS brakes.