A promising MPV as it seems, the upcoming Hyundai Custo is ready to lock horns with leading global MPVs. As far as the Indian market is concerned, Carnival will be the biggest competitor of Hyundai Custo. But with too many speculations coming ahead of the launch, can the Custo be a threat to the Carnival’s run in India.
What is the Hyundai Custo?
As recently teased by Hyundai, the Hyundai Custo is the South Korean manufacturer’s upcoming Multi-Purpose Vehicle that is all set for its big global debut. Even though it still isn’t known whether or not the MPV will make its way into the Indian market, if it does, then it can lock horns with the Kia Carnival and even the Innova Crysta.
Also Read: Hyundai Custo MPV to be based on Kia Carnival Platform!
Can the Custo Threaten the Carnival?
The Custo launching in India is something that only time will tell. But whether or not the Custo could threaten the Carnival’s run in India is something that can still be inferred.
Exteriors
By simply the looks of it, the Custo seems to be generations ahead of the Carnival, despite the fact that the Carnival itself is a fairly new vehicle. Specially designed for the Asian markets, the Hyundai Custo can be best described as a “minivan” avatar of the Tucson.
The overall silhouette, however, greatly resembles the Carnival, hinting at a direct rivalry. But with design cues such as a large jewel design grille, integrated LED DRLs, slim LED headlights and a muscular front bumper with integrated fog lamps, the overall design of the Custo resonates with Hyundai’s fluidic design language.
The rear too stands out with a pair of C-shaped LED tail lamps that are connected with each other with a full-length light bar. In totality, the modern stance of the Custo simple beats the Carnival’s elegant approach.
Features and Offerings
Even though there are no details about the interiors as of yet, the Custo is expected to have features such as a large TFT instrument cluster, multifunctional steering wheel, auto climate control and a vertically-oriented touchscreen infotainment display. With the leaked production-spec images it is also evident that the MPV will come with a dual moon roof, a new set of alloys and much more. Speculations also suggest that the Custo can be offered with 6 or 7 seats with three rows of seating, and can feature modern captain seats onboard.
And despite the Carnival featuring quite a comfortable cabin layout and ample features onboard, the Custo’s overall appeal still looks threatening. A major reason behind this is the already garnered trust that Hyundai has gained through offering such as the Creta and now the Alcazar.
Checkout: Kia Carnival Scores 5-Stars In ANCAP Crash Test
The Powertrain
With no confirmed information speculations strongly suggests that the Custo will feature a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol mill under the hood that can produce 170 HP. There could also be a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that will make 236 BHP. The transmission will be handled by a standard 8-speed auto. With Custo’s arrival in India, Kia’s run that is only driven by a diesel engine is sure to be threatened as consumers still prefer petrol over diesel, now that prices too aren’t very different.
The Bottom Line
With a promising package on offer, the Hyundai Custo seems like a value for money offering for those who are looking to bring home a capable Multi-Purpose Vehicle. If and when the Custo enters India, the Carnival would be direct competition. The ball, however, seems to be falling in Custo’s court.
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