Hyundai ix25 concept previews new baby SUV

Unveiled after months of spy shots and leaked images, the ix25 will be released towards the end of this year – though initially only in China.

The South Korean car maker describes the ix25 as a “small-sized China-exclusive SUV”, however it’s expected to eventually be sold in other markets, including Europe and Australia. Hyundai Europe president Allan Rushforth earlier this year described the addition of a sub-compact SUV to the brand’s line-up as “vital”, while Hyundai Australia has also confirmed its interest in bringing the model to local showrooms, believing it would be a "strong contender in a growing segment".

At 4270mm long, 1780mm wide, 1630mm tall and riding on a 2590mm wheelbase, the Hyundai ix25 concept is 140mm shorter, 40mm thinner and sits 50mm lower to the ground than the compact ix35 SUV, as well as 50mm shorter between the wheels.

Targeting the likes of the Ford EcoSport, Holden Trax and Peugeot 2008, Hyundai says the ix25 will appeal to “the young generation who seek style and practicality”. The baby SUV features the brand’s evolved Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design philosophy, taking cues from the larger Santa Fe, and is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.