Hyundai unveil 'ix25' concept at Beijing Motor Show
The 'ix25' is described by Hyundai as a "sophisticated small-sized SUV" with premium appearance and features, something considered essential for the young, affluent Chinese market the production version will launch into.
Equipped with a Nu 2.0 engine, the ix25 concept has an overall length of 4,270mm, overall width of 1,780mm and overall height of 1,630mm, with a wheelbase of 2,590mm.
"Hyundai Motor has grown into a leading automaker in China through continuous innovation for the past 11 years," said Hyundai Motor's President Sung Kee Choi. "Hyundai Motor is now poised for a new challenge to become the most-loved brand by Chinese customers, with high-quality models such as the ix25 SUV, which is strategically-developed for China."
The launch of the ix25 in China will boost Hyundai's SUV offerings in the country, adding to the ix35, Santa Fe (5-seater) and Grand Santa Fe (7-seater), and is part of the company's aim to be the market leader in China's rapidly-growing SUV market. In order to best reach the ix25's younger target market in China, Hyundai Motor is planning a number of marketing activities to attract them.
Currently a China-only model, product planners at Hyundai Motor Company Australia are studying the ix25 to assess its suitability for the local market.
"The ix25 compact SUV would do battle in one of Australia's fastest-growing automotive segments," said Hyundai Motor Australia's Director of Marketing, Oliver Mann.
"We have no doubt that with Hyundai's commitment to quality and toughness, this good-looking new ix25 would be well suited to the task."