Hyundai’s current crossover offerings include the compact Tucson, the five-seater Santa Fe Sport, and the seven-passenger Santa Fe. While that range would have been plenty to satisfy buyers a few years ago, the market is clamoring for more options these days.
Therefore it comes as no surprise that Hyundai is coming close to a decision on two new crossovers, a subcompact to sit below the Tucson, and a range-topping version based on the Hyundai Genesis sedan.
Reportedly, Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski’s wishlist includes a luxury SUV that wears the Genesis badge. With the latest Genesis redesign moving the sedan significantly upscale in looks and refinement, a Genesis crossover priced in the $40,000 territory might attract buyers considering the upcoming 2016 Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and the Ford Explorer.
As for the sub-compact, its direct rivals would include the Chevrolet Trax, Jeep Renegade, and Honda HR-V. Its platform would come from an existing model produced in China – likely the ix25.
Hyundai isn’t just concerned about crossovers, though. Another report says the handsome Santa Cruz concept pickup truck is just about to receive the nod for production, with full support from the Korean automaker’s executive team.
Hyundai says the concept received a 90 percent approval rating from potential buyers in product clinics, and everyone knows product clinics are infallible. Well, not really, but it’s probably a good sign that a Hyundai pickup wouldn’t just sit on dealer lots for eternity.
With small pickups like the Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, redesigned Toyota Tacoma, and upcoming next-gen Honda Ridgeline garnering market appeal, a light-duty pickup might bring Hyundai some extra brand credibility, even if sales don’t match its rivals.
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