Hyundai – CarMafia

Passenger Vehicle Wholesales Reach New High in July 2023, Fueled by SUV and MPV Demand

Sourav — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 08:52:16 +0000

Passenger vehicle wholesales in India reached a record high in July 2023, with an estimated 3,52,492 units sold. The surge in demand for Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) played a significant role in achieving this milestone, although the demand for small cars remained tepid and affected overall growth. The overall sales figure is up 3.1 percent compared to the same month last year, making July 2023 the best-performing month for the passenger vehicle industry this calendar year, and likely the best July in history.

The statistics revealed that utility vehicles, including SUVs and MPVs, continue to dominate the market, constituting every second car sold in the country. This segment’s growth outpaced that of hatchbacks and sedans, establishing it as the highest seller for nearly all manufacturers. Cumulative sales for the first seven months of 2023 totaled approximately 23,62,500 units, representing a remarkable 9 percent year-on-year growth.

Passenger Vehicles Sales in July 2023

Manufacturer	July ’23	July ’22	YoY growth	June ’23	MoM growth
Maruti Suzuki	1,52,126	1,42,850	6%	1,33,027	14.35%
Hyundai Motors	50,701	50,500	0	50,001	1.39%
Tata Motors	47,689	47,636	0	47,359	0.69%
Mahindra & Mahindra	36,205	28,053	29%	32,588	11%
Toyota Kirloskar Motors	20,759	19,693	5%	18,237	14%
MG Motor India	5,012	4,013	25%	5,125	-2.2%
Honda Cars India	4,864	6,784	-28%	5,080	-4.4%
Total of 7 OEMs	3,17,356	2,99,529	6%	2,91,417	8.9%

Leading the charts in July 2023 was Maruti Suzuki, with total wholesales of 1,52,126 units, marking a 6 percent year-on-year increase. The company’s expanding portfolio of utility vehicles, which includes compact and midsized SUVs, along with three MPVs, contributed significantly to this growth.

Maruti Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki’s UV portfolio, featuring models such as the Brezza, Ertiga, Fronx, Grand Vitara, Invicto, Jimny, S-Cross, and XL6, witnessed an impressive 167 percent year-on-year growth, selling 62,049 units in July 2023. The Nexa lineup, which includes 52,500 units sold, also played a crucial role in boosting the company’s overall performance. As a result, Maruti Suzuki’s market share rose to 43.3 percent in July 2023, compared to 41.8 percent in the same month last year.

However, the sales of the company’s other sub-segments, namely the budget hatchbacks (Alto and S Presso), compact cars (Baleno, Celerio, Dzire, Ignis, Swift, Tour S, Wagon R), premium sedan (Ciaz), and the Eeco van, declined in comparison to the previous year.

Hyundai Motors

Hyundai Motors recorded a total of 50,701 units sold in July 2023, with a marginal year-on-year growth of 0.39 percent. The Hyundai Creta remained the best-selling model for the automaker, and it recently crossed the milestone of 9,00,000 units sold since its launch eight years ago. To protect its market position, Hyundai is banking on the recently launched Exter, and it aims to achieve overall domestic market sales of around 6,00,000 units for the entire year.

Tata Motors

Tata Motors reported wholesales of 47,689 units in July 2023, maintaining flat growth compared to the same month last year. However, the company witnessed a marginal month-on-month growth of 0.11 percent. Despite facing new competition in the electric vehicle segment, Tata Motors’ EV sales grew by an impressive 53 percent year-on-year. Tata Motors has outlined plans to launch around half-a-dozen new models, including facelifts and new powertrain options, starting this festive season.

Mahindra & Mahindra

Mahindra & Mahindra achieved its highest-ever monthly SUV sales in July 2023, with total wholesales of 36,205 units. This marks a strong 29 percent year-on-year growth and an 11 percent month-on-month increase. The company’s robust market performance is due to its 31 percent growth in the first seven months of 2023, as well as the first four months of FY2024. Mahindra has expanded its SUV manufacturing capacity to cater to the surging demand for UVs.

Toyota

Toyota Kirloskar Motors reported wholesales of 20,759 units in July 2023, representing a 5 percent year-on-year growth. The company experienced a substantial 14 percent month-on-month increase in sales, driven by the rising demand for its cars, SUVs, and MPVs. MG Motor India achieved a year-on-year growth of 25 percent in July 2023, with retail sales of 5,012 units. However, the company’s sales witnessed a 2.2 percent month-on-month decline due to the impact of severe weather and floods in some parts of the country.

Hyundai Unveils Fifth-Generation Santa Fe with Rugged Design and Versatile Interior

Sourav — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 18:08:46 +0000

Hyundai has officially unveiled the highly anticipated fifth-generation Santa Fe SUV after early leaked images surfaced online. The new Santa Fe aims to cater to the off-road lifestyle market, presenting a boxy design and enhanced flexibility as Hyundai’s most versatile family SUV.

With a complete design overhaul, the Santa Fe departs from its predecessor’s curved lines and embraces sharp edges and wide wheel arches. This rugged aesthetic draws inspiration from renowned 4×4 vehicles like Land Rover and Jeep, solidifying the Santa Fe’s position as a capable and adventurous offering.

The distinctive appearance of the new Santa Fe sets it apart from Hyundai’s existing lineup, following the design approach established by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and further exemplified by the curvaceous Ioniq 6. Notably, certain styling elements, such as the H-pattern signature lighting, are shared with the recently launched Hyundai Exter SUV in India.

Hyundai has extended the Santa Fe’s wheelbase, resulting in class-leading interior space. The enlarged tailgate aims to create a “terrace-like” area when the second and third rows of seats are folded down, offering occupants the convenience of a small workstation or lounge space. While the exact dimensions have not been officially disclosed, the overall length of the SUV is not expected to increase significantly due to a shortened front overhang.

Inside the Santa Fe, a focus on usability and practicality is evident. Essential functions like climate control, radio, and drive mode controls are operated through physical buttons and dials. The cabin is equipped with multiple USB ports, wireless charging pads, and abundant storage compartments and cupholders. Infotainment is delivered through a curved 12.3-inch touchscreen, complemented by a matching digital instrument display.

Hyundai emphasizes sustainability in the new Santa Fe’s interior, utilizing recycled plastics for elements such as the suede-like headliner, mats, and seatbacks in the second and third rows.

While powertrain details have not been officially announced, sources suggest that the new Santa Fe will offer the outgoing model’s turbocharged 2.5-liter petrol engine and a 1.6-liter gasoline direct injection turbo, depending on the market. Customers can expect a range of options, including front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and even a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Although the Santa Fe has been available in India in its second and third generations, there is no confirmation regarding the introduction of the fifth-generation model to the Indian market. Hyundai’s flagship model in India remains the Tucson, maintaining its prominence in the brand’s lineup.

Hyundai Exter Transforms Time: Waiting Period Morphs into Two-Month Odyssey, Unveiling Variant-Wise Enumeration

Sourav — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 18:00:28 +0000

The recent launch of the Hyundai Exter by the South Korean car manufacturer has sent shockwaves through the Indian auto industry. Priced at an enticing starting price of Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), this micro-SUV has quickly become the talk of the town, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts across the country.

The Exter’s remarkable success can be attributed to its aggressive design and a plethora of advanced features, all offered within an affordable price range. However, the overwhelming response from customers has resulted in an unforeseen consequence – a staggering waiting period of 12 weeks for prospective buyers.

Following its official launch, the Exter witnessed an unprecedented surge in bookings, completely reversing the waiting period situation. Hyundai revealed that the micro-SUV, touted as a direct rival to the Tata Punch, is currently receiving an average of 1,800 pre-bookings per day, and this number is expected to grow even further.

The company also shared the breakdown of the bookings, highlighting that 40 percent were for the petrol variant, 38 percent for the AMT (Automatic Manual Transmission), and 22 percent for the CNG variant. Authorized dealerships have confirmed that the waiting period varies depending on the chosen variant. Currently, the manual and CNG models of the Exter have a maximum waiting period of around seven to eight weeks. On the other hand, the AT (Automatic Transmission) variant commands a waiting period of up to 12 weeks.

To cater to different customer preferences, Hyundai has introduced the Exter with three engine options. The first variant is equipped with a 1.2L Kappa petrol engine, delivering a maximum power output of 82 bhp and a peak torque of 113.8 Nm. The remaining options include a 1.2L Bi-fuel Kappa petrol and CNG engine, providing buyers with the choice of alternative fuel options.

The Hyundai Exter has undoubtedly made a strong impression on Indian car buyers with its captivating design, advanced features, and competitive pricing. However, prospective buyers will need to exercise patience due to the extended waiting period. As excitement builds around this micro-SUV, it is poised to redefine the segment and pave the way for Hyundai’s continued success in the Indian market.

Hyundai Unveils Powerful Ioniq 5 N: A High-Performance Electric Vehicle

Sourav — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 18:25:10 +0000

Hyundai has recently introduced its first-ever high-performance electric vehicle (EV), the Ioniq 5 N, showcasing the brand’s commitment to electrification and performance. This latest addition to Hyundai’s lineup combines cutting-edge technology, exhilarating performance, and striking design elements.

Under the hood, the Ioniq 5 N boasts two electric motors that deliver an impressive total output of up to 650 horsepower, thanks to the N Grin Boost mode. With this mode engaged, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.4 seconds (claimed), providing an exhilarating driving experience. The top speed of the Ioniq 5 N reaches an impressive 260 kilometers per hour.

To enhance the driving experience further, Hyundai has incorporated a 10-speaker sound system that simulates the acoustic qualities of a traditional car. This technology aims to provide drivers with a familiar and immersive audio experience, with themes ranging from the sound of a turbo-petrol engine to that of an electric vehicle, or even inspired by the roar of a twin-engine fighter jet.

The Ioniq 5 N’s performance is supported by an 84-kilowatt-hour battery, though the exact range remains undisclosed. Nevertheless, Hyundai claims that the battery can be rapidly charged from 10 to 80 percent within a mere 18 minutes using a 350-kilowatt DC fast charger.

Hyundai has not overlooked the importance of superior braking capabilities. The Ioniq 5 N features lightweight, high-performance brakes with optimized airflow for enhanced cooling. With the N Brake Regen system, the vehicle can achieve a decelerative force of up to 0.6G, ensuring precise control and improved safety during braking maneuvers.

In terms of structural enhancements, Hyundai has reinforced the Ioniq 5 N’s chassis with an additional 42 welding points and 2.1 meters of adhesive, providing increased rigidity and stability during cornering. Additionally, the motor and battery mounts have been fortified to enhance overall performance.

The design of the Ioniq 5 N exudes sportiness and athleticism. It showcases distinctive body elements, including an 80-millimeter increase in length and a 50-millimeter increase in width compared to the standard model. The vehicle sits 20 millimeters lower and features 21-inch aluminum alloy wheels that accentuate its dynamic appearance. The front bumper integrates air curtains and air flaps, contributing to improved aerodynamics and cooling efficiency. At the rear, an N-specific spoiler and a larger air diffuser add to the vehicle’s sporty appeal.

Inside the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai has implemented various upgrades to elevate the driving experience. Notable features include an N-specific steering wheel with customizable N buttons for drive modes, as well as a dedicated button for the N Grin Boost mode. The center console has been redesigned with track driving in mind, incorporating knee pads, shin supports, and a revamped center armrest. The bucket seats feature reinforced bolsters for enhanced cornering support and are mounted 20 millimeters lower than those found in the standard Ioniq 5.

While the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has been unveiled to international markets, the standard Ioniq 5 is currently available in India. Priced at Rs 44.95 lakh (ex-showroom, India), it offers a 72.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a certified range of 631 kilometers. The rear axle-mounted electric motor generates 217 horsepower and 350 Newton-meters of torque, delivering a balanced blend of efficiency and performance.

With the introduction of the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai has proven its ability to combine electric mobility with exhilarating performance, solidifying its position in the ever-evolving EV market. This high-performance model represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and exciting future for automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

Hyundai EXTER launched in India, Aggressive Pricing 5.99 Lakh

Sourav — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 20:01:29 +0000

The Hyundai Motor Co has unleashed a storm in the Indian automotive market with the much-anticipated arrival of the Exter, a compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) specifically designed to captivate young car buyers. In a strategic move to reclaim lost ground from competitors who have been stealing the limelight with their fresh car models, Hyundai has set the stage ablaze. With an audaciously competitive starting price of just ₹ 5.99 lakh for the entry-level model, and ₹ 9.99 lakh for the top-end variant, the Exter aims to go head-to-head against its domestic rival, Tata Motors’ Punch SUV.

The introduction of the Exter not only plugs a crucial gap in Hyundai’s lineup but also serves as a defining moment for the South Korean carmaker’s India strategy. Unsoo Kim, the CEO of Hyundai Motor India, declared the Indian market as one of “strategic significance” during the thrilling launch event. Kim’s statement reinforced the company’s unwavering commitment to meeting the diverse needs of Indian car buyers. With a staggering investment of 9.5 billion rupees, Hyundai spared no expense in developing a game-changing vehicle that would set pulses racing across the nation.

India’s automotive landscape has witnessed an unprecedented surge in demand for SUVs, as car buyers enthusiastically embrace the allure of these versatile vehicles. Hyundai’s rival, Maruti Suzuki, made waves last week with the introduction of their premium seven-seater SUV, hoping to win over discerning, upmarket buyers. Now, it’s Hyundai’s turn to make a statement with the Exter. Armed with a host of captivating features, this compact SUV boasts a voice-enabled electric sunroof, a dashboard camera ready to capture the perfect selfie, and a wireless smartphone charger that brings convenience to the palm of your hand. These cutting-edge features, usually reserved for larger and more expensive models, give the Exter an undeniable edge in the fiercely competitive Indian SUV market.

While Hyundai has seen commendable sales figures in recent years, its market share has experienced a slight dip, dropping below 15% from its peak of 17.5% in the 2019-2020 period, as per industry data. Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra, on the other hand, have surged ahead with their ambitious new launches. But fear not, as the Exter arrives as a knight in shining armor, ready to reclaim Hyundai’s rightful place in the hearts and driveways of Indian consumers. Ravi Bhatia, the president for India at automotive consultancy JATO Dynamics, expressed confidence in the Exter’s potential to reinvigorate Hyundai’s market share, noting that any new launch is bound to draw eager buyers to showrooms. However, Bhatia emphasized the need for Hyundai to expand its product strategy by venturing into higher segments, tapping into the lucrative market where demand is rapidly growing.

As the dust settles from the grand unveiling, one thing is abundantly clear: the Hyundai Exter SUV has arrived to make its mark in India’s automotive arena. With its irresistible pricing, striking design, and feature-loaded offerings, the Exter is set to rewrite the rules of the game. Hyundai’s bold move signals an unwavering commitment to cater to the evolving tastes and aspirations of young Indian car buyers. As the Exter roars into the spotlight, it brings with it a wave of excitement and anticipation, promising to reshape the landscape of compact SUVs and ignite the passion of a new generation of Indian drivers. Brace yourself, India, the Exter is here to make a statement that cannot be ignored.