The sporty iteration of the Kia SP Concept based SUV is expected to launch in 2020 and is going to get a 1.4-litre, turbo petrol engine with 140BHP on tap.
In addition to launching a compact SUV based on the SP Concept that we all saw at the 2018 Auto Expo, which will compete against the likes of Hyundai Creta and Nissan Kicks, Kia Motors India is also looking at a rather unique segment which so has not been explored. While this new compact urban SUV will compete in the INR 9 Lakh to INR 15 Lakh segment, catering to buyers looking for a comfortable, feature-rich and premium vehicle, its ‘more-power cousin’ is also expected to make debut in 2020.
Yes, you heard it right. Autocar India reports that Kia Motors India is currently working a sportier version of the SP Concept based SUV. While the standard iteration is going to launch during the month of August this year, the pumped-up iteration is likely to make its debut sometime during the year 2020.
Also Read: Kia SP Concept SUV India Launch, Price Expectations, Features, Specifications And Other Details
This new iteration of the Kia SP Concept based SUV, is going to come with a new 1.4-litre, turbo petrol engine which is going to churn out 140 BHP of power. This engine will send the power to the wheels with the help of a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Not only this, for a more engaging experience, the ‘Sports’ utility vehicle is also going to come with paddle shifters.
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Apart from the new and more powerful engine, it is also going to come with a sportier body kit along with a similar upholstery on the inside. With the standard iteration of this vehicle expected to be priced in-between the range of INR 9 to 15 Lakh, we expect the ‘hot’ version to cost a premium of atleast INR 1-1.5 lakh.
Also Read: Kia SP Concept SUV Vs Hyundai Creta – What to expect
Coming back to the ‘standard’ Kia Sp Concept based SUV, this one is going to come with a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated engine petrol engine while the diesel motor is also going to be a 1.5-litre unit. The transmission responsibilities will be taken care of by a manual transmission. While there will be an automatic option in the portfolio as well.
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Sporty versions of some of the existing models, like the Baleno for which we have the Baleno RS and the Tiago for which we have the Tiago JTP and similarly the Abarth Punto and even the Volkswagen Polo GT models have not been able to garner an enthusiastic response from the buyers. Do you think that a sportier version of a compact SUV will be able to attract much attention? What are your views? Do let us know in the comment section below!
