Hyundai’s 800cc Alto rival only expected in 2012

This is the Ix Metro concept. Don't expect Hyundai's 800cc car to look anything like this

Apparently, our friends at IAB have got their hands on what appears to be a test mule of Hyundai’s upcoming 800cc challenger to the Maruti Suzuki Alto. The H800 will sport basic styling (read flat sides, less styling cuts and ordinary lamps) to keep production costs low although it is expected to offer lots of space. According to a top official who spoke to ET, Hyundai are looking to launch the 800cc car at the Auto Expo 2012. The new baby Hyundai will go up against the next-generation VW-Suzuki Alto and possibly the 800cc Spark (if it is launched).

Hyundai have also come up with a 800cc Turbocharged version of the i10 for Europe.

Hyundai are looking at snatching sales from the Alto that currently starts from Rs 2.28 lakh. Hyundai’s cheapest car at the moment is the decade old Santro which starts from Rs 2.73 lakh Ex-Delhi for the non AC model. So finding a way to reduce Rs 73,000 will land Hyundai in the jackpot region of Rs 2 lakhs, putting it closer to even the Nano (by 2012, the Nano’s cost would have definitely gone up). To keep the price under control, we think Hyundai might go in for a reworked Santro platform. Providing support for this model is Hyundai R&D centre in Hyderabad. As is the norm with Hyundai models made in India, this will also be exported to developing countries worldwide. When ET contacted Hyundai India Managing Director HW Park, he declined to comment on the project.

Additionally Hyundai will launch the Santa Fe by the end of the year.