Our spy photographers have spotted a Kia crossover running cold weather tests, and according to our sources, it could be a test mule for a production version of the SP Concept that has been slated to enter the Indian market this year. Though at first thought to be exclusively for that market, reports suggest that the productionised SP Concept – likely to be known as the Tusker – will also be launched in the United States.
The Hyundai Creta – also the Chinese-market ix25 – will form the basis of the Tusker, and is therefore likely to share its engine range. At the Creta’s launch, this comprised a 1.6 litre petrol unit with 123 PS, a 1.6 turbodiesel with 128 PS, and a 1.4 turbodiesel. Meanwhile the Stonic, the Korean marque’s B-segment SUV for Europe, is powered by a choice of 1.0 litre T-GDI turbocharged petrol, 1.25 and 1.4 litre naturally aspirated petrol, and a 1.6 litre turbodiesel.
The Tusker is expected to remain front wheel drive as with its B-segment hatchback sibling, in order to put clear air between it and the larger Sportage SUV in the segment above. No interior images of the compact SUV have appeared just yet, though this can be expected to a development of the cabin – or at least cues derived – from the current Rio.
For now, the Tusker has been tipped for a debut as a 2020 year model, likely to make its debut late this year or early in 2020.
GALLERY: Kia SP Concept
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