Hyundai to launch compact car Getz in August

Our Corprate Bureau
26 July 2004

Chennai: Hyundai Motor''s small car, Getz, is finally coming to India and is slated to be launched in August just before the start of the festive season.

The company is planning to launch two versions initially. These include an entry-level model and a fully loaded top-end version. Initially, Getz would be introduced as a hatchback but the platform on which it is built is flexible and if needed, a three-box version could be produced.

Powered by a 1300 CC engine, Getz would meet Euro III emission norms and would be substantially (upto 85 per cent) indigenised so that it could be competitively priced.

According to sources in the company, the car would be priced mid way between Hyundai''s Santro and Accent models so that does not eat into the market share of either.

Industry sources say Getz will be positioned in the upper B segment and would take on Fiat Palio and Corsa Sail and the soon-to-debut upper B segment offerings from Ford and Maruti in the near future. Hyundai is reportedly looking to price Getz between 4.9 to Rs 5.2 lakh.

Reported to have larger interiors than other existing B or even C segment cars like the Ikon Flair and Corsa Sail industry experts say the Hyundai Getz will change the dynamics of the Indian auto market since it will effectively straddle both the segments.