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Indian small car segment seems to be on the verge of a transformation similar to that it had witnessed in 1984 when Maruti 800 was introduced albeit this time it would be Hyundai that will bring the change.
South Korean car maker Hyundai is planning to introduce another small car which will be coming by the end of this year. This car has been codenamed H800 and is also called Hyundai HA and it will take on Tata Nano, Maruti Alto and New Maruti 800.
Maruti is planning to bring a BSIV version of Maruti 800 soon. It is expected to be unveiled at the Indian Auto Expo 2012.
Let's know more about Hyundai HA (H800) and see if it has the guts to outdo its rivals.
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Hyundai HA
This under-four meter car is developed on the Hyundai Santro platform but has looks inspired by Hyundai i10.
It will be 800cc car and is expected to be put below Santro and will be available in the price range of Rs 200,000-Rs 300,000.
With this price, HA encompasses in its ambit the entry level small hatchbacks.
The car is in the test run phase and has been spied many times now. It is anticipated that it will arrive during the festive season.
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Hyundai HA engine
Being developed on Santro platform, HA will take advantage of the local production.
It will be 814cc car with three pots and an engine based on Santro.
The maximum power of the engine will approximately be 48bhp and it is expected that it will also draw many features from Santro.
The engine is expected to be mated to a five-speed gearbox. The high end variant of HA could house a Kappa engine.
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Exteriors
Spy pictures of Hyundai HA indicate that it has looks inherited from both Santro and i10. Moreover, it is highly inspired by the Fluidic design that is the design for all future cars by Hyundai.
The flowing and dynamic exterior looks with sharp cuts embody in HA.
The A and C pillars besides the shoulder line also indicate influence of the Fluidic design.
The front grille of HA is said to have been derived from Hyundai i40.
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Interiors
Similar to i10 it has a cabin that has been extended forward to increase space inside the car.
Beige interiors are likely to be there in the top-end HA besides a two-tone dashboard.
If it is to remain in the Rs 200,000-300,000 category we can't expect Hyundai to put in class plastic inside.
It could also have a steering wheel akin to i20.
There will be dial type control knobs, height adjustable head rests at the front and will have a three dial instrument cluster.
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Rivals
Hyundai HA will primarily compete with India's largest selling car Maruti Alto.
Besides, Tata Nano LX will also be its competitor.
Being a Hyundai brand car, it will attract the trust of the masses.
The other plus for HA would be Hyundai's extensive service network in the country.
However, being only in petrol will be a minus for HA when anything and everything in diesel is welcome these days.