New Hyundai Verna: The Hyundai Verna has always been a symbol of the Korean carmaker’s expression in the Indian market of a global product design and technology that is priced to bring a smile to millions of faces.
The latest generation of the Verna has taken a drastic leap and it may just, thanks to where the market has headed (SUVs), be among the most unique offerings that are a little more eyes-ahead in the Indian market.
This full redesign is Hyundai’s statement of purpose around the continued relevancy of sedans in an evolving car culture.
New Hyundai Verna: Design Evolution
The New Verna manifest Hyundai’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language which has added aura of expressiveness to the Indian sedan segment.
At the front a charismatic parametric grille that stretches across the car’s front profile, combined with unique LED DRLs establish an unmistakable light signature.
This connected light design has become a signature feature in Hyundai’s latest implementations and the Verna is recognizable on the road.
From the side, this fastback profile morphed from the current more upright one, with a very tapering roof and greater distinction between the sedan and the coupe.
This move costs some rear headroom but yields aesthetic interest with an almost Euro-inspired premium feel.
The lines along the side add play of light, so you’re not left with a slab-sided design despite its clean overall appeal.
At the back, the integrated LED tail lamp unit mirrors the light signature of the front, for visual coherence.
A tall rear deck lid and little integrated tail spoiler contribute to a rear design that helps reduce aerodynamic drag while also providing the Accord Tourer with a sporty image. It’s all very seamless too and its execution is Hyundai’s most grown-up to the Indian market yet.
Interior and Technology
It’s all very 21st century in the new Verna, where the cockpit is the site of dual 10.25in screens; one for instruments, the other for infotainment both mounted beneath a single curved panel.
That layout alone, once seen only in high-quality European models, gives it a truly high-end feel. With a plastic-overd glass touchscreen, the minimalist dash sports thin air vents and capacitive touch controls that minimize physical buttons but do little to sacrifice function.
Rounding out the tech list is Hyundai’s complete BlueLink connected car features, 60-plus functions including remote engine start and geo-fencing alerts.
It has advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) so that Level 2 autonomy features, such as, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking – not available on a vehicle at this price point before.
Smart features such as ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger and an 8 speaker Bose premium audio system bring in solutions that cater to the needs of technology loving bling-friendly Indian consumer.
Substantial materials and commendable fit and finish indicate the interior is a effort by Hyundai to move upmarket: Soft-touch materials abound, and panels fit together with little wiggle room between them.
Powertrain Options
Beneath the hood, the all-new Verna gets two petrol engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated MPi with 115 PS and 144 Nm, or a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit making a best-in-class 160 PS and 253 Nm. The latter performs like a larger saloon, covering 0-100 km/h in around 8.5 seconds.
It can be had either with a six speed manual gearbox, a typical 6-speed conventional automatic for the naturally aspirated engine or a new 7-speed dual-clutch unit for the turbocharged one.
This varied powertrain selection ensures that the Verna caters to both the average daily commuter as well as to those with racing hearts.
One of the notable omissions is the absence of a diesel powertrain, which is a part of Hyundai’s plan to cater to the post-BS6 mentality and also because the role of diesel is getting limited on this side of the automotive industry.
Driving Dynamics
The new Verna is built on Hyundai’s K2 platform, which does wonders for its structural rigidity and crash safety.
The suspension setup has been honed to find the right compromise between ride comfort and precision, with a focus on high-speed stability, which was an Achilles heel of previous generations.
The new steering system is better mannered than the old unit, it still is light and makes for easy work in tight urban environs.
Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes alter throttle response, steering weight, and transmission mapping to match different driving conditions and tastes.
Market Positioning
The new Verna’s profile in India’s changing automotive industry is most intriguing. “With the overall car market becoming more focused on SUVs, we believe the Verna combats this with a clearly distinguishable offering which is a true sedan…
Societal: The overall car market is moving increasingly toward an SUV based approach. Priced at around the cost of compact SUV models like the Hyundai Creta, here’s a tempting alternative that promises sharper aerodynamics, better efficiency, and more driving fun.
New Hyundai Verna:
The new Hyundai Verna is a testament to the strength of the sedan shape and attitude that a lot of OEMs are coming out of.
With its bold design, class-leading features and notable performance, Hyundai has managed to craft a product that breaks away from the segment it competes in, and one which challenges the S in the long so popular India-specific segment.