Next-Gen Hyundai Verna: What To Expect

The new Verna made its debut in China as a concept and is expected to hit India in 2017!

Hyundai has unveiled the concept of the fifth-generation Verna at the 2016 Beijing Motor Show. Also known as Accent and Solaris in other countries, the Verna is due for a generation change. In India, the Fluidic Verna (now known as the Verna 4S) made its debut in 2011 and it was at the apex before the fourth-generation Honda City came into the picture in 2014. Despite its recent facelift, which added more features to the car, the Verna didn’t really pick up. So, let's figure out what we can expect from the new 2017 Hyundai Verna.  

It has a 2016 Elantra-inspired design! 

Hyundai has completely reimagined the Elantra brand with its latest avatar, which it has modelled on the lines of the current Sonata. The same principles will be applied to the new Verna, as is evident from its concept. Similar to the new Elantra (image below) — which is reportedly making its way to India this year — the new Verna will be sharper, bolder and more flamboyant than before 

The new gaping grille, flanked by sleeker swept-back headlamps, is the highlight of its face now. The coupe-like roofline of the current sedan will be further exaggerated in the upcoming version. The rear profile with its wrap-around tail lamps and the integrated boot lip spoiler is as flamboyant as the front. 

New petrol options with 6-speed manual 

Hyundai might just continue with the current engine line-up of the Verna. However, there is a possibility that the automaker will introduce its global downsized turbocharged petrol engine family (T-GDI) with the new version. The 1.0-litre T-GDI motor, which is also available with the second-gen i20 (Elite i20) globally, might be offered with the new Verna in India. This engine generates close to 120 horses and the torque exceeds 170 Nm. 

Why there is a possibility? Because the Elite i20’s arch rival, Maruti Suzuki Baleno, will soon offer a similar engine in the coming months (see which other Marutis might get the new 1.0-litre BoosterJet, including the Ciaz). To counter this, Hyundai may introduce this motor in the country, both in the Elite i20 and the new Verna. 

Unlike the current Verna, the Creta uses the same petrol motor but with a six-speed manual. It is expected that the upcoming Verna will offer a six-speed unit with its petrol counterpart. Similar is the case with the BR-V and the City — the former shares the petrol engine with the latter, but it is mated to a new six-speed manual in the BR-V. It is expected that Honda will offer this new transmission with the City’s facelifted model, which will come at the same time that Hyundai introduces the Verna in India. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 

Since Google has launched the Android Auto in India, the new Elantra is expected to offer it, along with Apple CarPlay. We expect the same with the new Verna as well, specially since Hyundai’s arch rival Maruti has started to offer Apple CarPlay in a few of its premium offerings. 

Watch The First Look Of The New Verna

A lot is riding on this next-generation Verna to help it regain its lost glory. We’ll get a clearer picture  when the production version makes its debut this year at Hyundai's home turf.  

Read More on : Verna