Hyundai considering Indian-built i10 subcompact for U.S. market

Posted Mon Aug 18 2008 7:18 AM by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Strong demand for smaller and more fuel-efficient models in North America has carmakers scrambling to increase their compact offerings in order to capitalize on the market shift. Hyundai is the latest company reported to be considering adding more small cars to its U.S. lineup, and is said to be nearing a decision on bringing its i10 subcompact Stateside.

The i10 is a five-door hatchback sized between the Smart ForTwo and Honda Fit (Jazz) and built in India. It was first launched in October last year and is currently on sale in more than 70 countries, but if it were to be offered in the U.S. many of its current specifications will need to be changed.

Speaking with Automotive News, an insider revealed that the car could be sold in the U.S. as a Hyundai or Kia or both and that it would need “beefing up.”

"We will put about 400 or so pounds into it and bring it up to U.S. safety standards," said the source. "This is a real working prototype. When we get cars at this stage, there's a good chance they're a go."

Power comes from a 66hp (50kW) 1.1L petrol engine in the base model, and with a kerb weight of just 1,892lb (860kg) the car returns an impressive 56mpg (4.2L/100km) fuel economy rating. A larger 80hp (60kW) 1.2L model is also offered.

Reader Comments

Mon Aug 18 2008 5:21 PM
NoNameDenton says

Going to need a more powerfule engine, but they can leave the diesel engine as an option, who needs more hp when diesels offer lots of low end torque.
Wed Aug 20 2008 11:25 AM
NaBUru38 says

Hyundai i10's 80hp engine is fairly powerful for most people. Among the models sold in Spain (and dismissing the Minis and Lotuses), the two most powerful sub-3800mm cars are the Suzuki Swift Sport (125PS) and the CitroÃ«n C2 VTS (122PS). Most of the rest are warm hatches too, and all have under 110PS: Twingo GT, Panda 100HP, 500 Sport, Micra 160SR, 1007 Sport...

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