Hyundai is testing a new mini hatchback which has been codenamed AX1. The testing is currently going on in South Korea. There have been quite a few spy shots of the new vehicle. It will be positioned above the Hyundai Santro but lower than the Grand i10 Nios. Here, we have some new spy shots of the AX1 which was spotted while on a test.

In the pictures, we can see the front of the AX1. It has circular headlamps with a projector setup. From the earlier spy shots, we know that the LED Daytime Running Lamp will be a circular unit that will surround the headlight. The turn indicators will be placed above the headlamps in a slim rectangular unit. So, the AX1 will also have a split headlamp set up just like we have seen on the Hyundai Venue. The grille has triangular elements and sits between both the headlamps. The bonnet is also quite flat and gives a mini SUV appeal.

At the side profile, there will be new alloy wheels and an overall boxy shape. It will have a tall boy design to open up space for the occupants. The turn indicators are mounted on the outside rearview mirrors and there will also be roof rails. The rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillars. So, it gives a three-door effect to the AX1.

It is the rear design that still remains a mystery because there are two sets of brake lights. There are two circular units in the lower half of the bumper and there are triangular elements on the tailgate. There is a huge glass area which should help in removing any blind spots. There is also a rear wiper with a washer, a high mounted stop lamp and a shark-fin antenna.

Clearly, the design language is not for everyone. It seems like it is aimed towards the younger audience just like the Maruti Suzuki Ignis was for the millennials. The AX1 looks quirky and funky and similar elements are expected to be found on the interior. There will be a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rear parking camera, keyless entry, push-button to start/stop and much more. Just like any other Hyundai, the AX1 is expected to come with loads of features and equipment.

It is expected to be offered with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine that produces 83 hp and 114 Nm. Hyundai might also offer a 1.1-litre petrol engine that is offered on the Santro. The engine produces 69 hp and 99 Nm. This engine is expected to be aimed at people who are on a budget. Both the engines are expected to be offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT.

The launch timeline of the AX1 has not yet been revealed by Hyundai. However, we expect the AX1 to be launched in India by the end of this year. It will be going against Maruti Suzuki Ignis, Mahindra KUV100 and the upcoming Tata HBX.