Kia to launch SP Concept-based compact SUV, Tusker, in May 2019

Kia SP Concept

Kia is looking to enter the Indian market in 2019 and their first product is going to be the Kia SP concept-based compact SUV. According to a report by Overdrive, the company is likely to launch the Hyundai Creta rival in May 2019.

The concept SUV is currently in its testing phase in India and has been captured on camera on multiple occasions. Based on the naming contest, the production-ready model will likely be called the Kia Tusker.

The Tusker will reportedly be based on a Creta-derived platform including a new BS-VI ready 1.5-litre diesel engine that is expected to produce 115 PS of power and 250 Nm of peak torque. A new 1.5-litre petrol is also expected in the lineup. According to Overdrive, the motor is also expected to support hybrid components by 2023.

Spy shots of the test-mule tell us that while the design remains largely similar to the concept car, some of the creases and lines have been toned down. The grille still retains its two-part design while the headlamp unit has been made smaller but still retains the concept's shape. The bumpers have also been toned down a little, while the oversized rims from the concept have been done away with for a slightly smaller size.

The Kia Tusker, when launched, will rival the likes of the upcoming Nissan Kicks and its sister brand Hyundai's Creta. Pricing has not been announced, but it is expected to be somewhere between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 17 lakh.