Hyundai to launch new Verna and i20 along with a compact SUV

Hyundai is a big car maker from Korea. They want to sell many cars in India. They have a plan to sell more than half a million cars by 2016. To reach that goal, they will bring new versions of two popular cars – the Verna and the i20 – and a new small SUV.

Sales Goal and Market Plan

Hyundai says they will cross the half‑million sales mark in India. The company believes new models will help them reach this target. Bo Shin Seo, the CEO and MD of Hyundai Motor India, said the company wants to reach new heights in 2015. He also said the new Verna and the SUV will grow Hyundai’s market share.

Rakesh Srivastava, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, added that Hyundai will become a strong challenger in the utility‑vehicle segment. The company aims to grab at least 5% of the SUV market. Getting this share will also add about 1% more share in the passenger‑car market.

New Hyundai Verna and i20

Hyundai will launch updated versions of the Verna and the i20 in the first half of 2015. These cars will have fresh looks and new features. Recent news shows that the Verna was relaunched in March 2026 with a starting price of INR 10.98 lakh. The same article says Hyundai lowered the waiting period for both Verna and i20, making it easier for buyers to get the cars.

In November 2025, Hyundai announced upgrades for the Verna, i20 and i20 Active. The upgrades include better styling, improved safety equipment and newer infotainment options. These changes keep the cars modern and competitive.

Both the Verna and i20 are known for good fuel economy and comfortable rides. The Verna is a compact sedan, while the i20 is a hatchback. They are popular with families and young drivers.

The Compact SUV – Code‑named Gci

Hyundai also plans to launch a compact SUV. The project name is Gci. The SUV will be released in the second half of the calendar year. It will compete with the Ford EcoSport, which is the bestseller in the sub‑four‑meter segment.

Recent headlines tell us that Hyundai introduced a new compact SUV called the EXTER. The EXTER starts at INR 5.79 lakh. This price is between the EcoSport and the Renault Duster, just as earlier reports suggested. The EXTER will have both petrol and diesel engine options.

The SUV is expected to be roomier and more powerful than the i20. It will have the look and feel of a real SUV, with higher ground clearance and a sturdy body. The EXTER will also carry Hyundai’s “Drive to Shine” tagline, encouraging drivers to enjoy a bright driving experience.

Pricing, Competition and What It Means for Buyers

Price is a big factor for Indian car buyers. The new Verna’s price of INR 10.98 lakh places it in the mid‑size sedan segment. The i20’s price is similar, making both cars affordable for middle‑class families.

The EXTER’s price of INR 5.79 lakh puts it between the Ford EcoSport (around INR 5.5 lakh) and the Renault Duster (around INR 6.5 lakh). This positioning gives buyers a new choice in the compact SUV market.

Hyundai’s plan to launch these models together helps the brand cover three important car types: sedan, hatchback and SUV. This broad range can attract more customers and help Hyundai reach its sales target.

• Verna: Fresh styling, updated safety, price INR 10.98 lakh.
• i20: New features, shorter waiting time, competitive price.
• EXTER (compact SUV): Roomy, powerful, petrol and diesel options, price INR 5.79 lakh.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new Verna and i20 be launched?

The updated Verna and i20 are planned for the first half of 2015. Recent updates show the Verna was relaunched in March 2026.

What is the code name of the new SUV?

The project is called Gci. It is now known publicly as the Hyundai EXTER.

Will the SUV have both petrol and diesel engines?

Yes. Hyundai said the new SUV will be offered with both petrol and diesel options.

How does the price of the EXTER compare to its rivals?

The EXTER’s price of INR 5.79 lakh sits between the Ford EcoSport and the Renault Duster, giving buyers a middle‑ground choice.

Conclusion

Hyundai’s plan to launch a new Verna, a refreshed i20 and a compact SUV called the EXTER shows a strong push in the Indian market. The company aims to hit half‑a‑million sales, gain 5% of the SUV market and grow its overall share. With fresh designs, better features and competitive prices, these cars give Indian buyers more options. Keep an eye on Hyundai’s showrooms for the latest launch dates and test‑drive opportunities.