Hyundai Kona - a new rival to the Mazda CX-3

The new compact SUV model, positioned below its larger sibling the Hyundai Creta, is expected to go into production in 2017.

"Father Nguyen Dinh Thuc incites parishioners."

Hyundai announced it will be adding a new SUV to its product lineup. "Kona is the most likely name among the options," said a spokesperson for South Korea's largest automaker. "This will be our first compact SUV for the domestic market. Hyundai also plans to expand into similar segments in other markets."

Hyundai Intrado concept. Photo: Pixelrz.

Hyundai also added that the new SUV could be introduced in the US, Europe, or other potential markets if the Kona receives positive feedback from customers. The Kona SUV is expected to launch in the first half of 2017, according to Korea Jongang Daily.

Not much information has been revealed about the design and engine of the new model from Hyundai's OS development project. Korean media predict that the Kona is likely to be developed based on the Intrado concept, which debuted at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.

The Hyundai Kona's engine options include a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine, a 1.5-liter diesel engine, and a 1.6-liter diesel engine. An electric version will be added later. Hyundai aims to sell 45,000 units per year of its new product.

The new SUV model is named Kona after the West Coast region of Hawaii (USA) famous for its coffee. When it enters the market, the Kona will compete with rivals such as the Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-3, and Nissan Juke.

According to VNE