Hyundai Knight Edition: Now Available Across More Models
Hyundai has been strategically expanding its special edition models in India, and the latest news confirms that the Knight Edition treatment is extending to more vehicles in the lineup. Having already seen success with the Venue and Creta Knight Editions, Hyundai is now bringing this popular variant to the i20 premium hatchback and the flagship Alcazar SUV, while also preparing to introduce the Creta Electric to the Indian market.
The Knight Edition models have garnered attention for their distinctive all-black aesthetic and enhanced feature sets. According to industry reports, these special editions typically command a premium of approximately ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 over their standard counterparts. The expansion of this lineup suggests that the Knight Edition strategy has been successful for Hyundai in creating differentiated products that appeal to buyers looking for something more exclusive.
What Makes the Knight Edition Special?
The Knight Edition vehicles follow a consistent design philosophy across Hyundai's lineup. Based on the information available from existing Knight Edition models, we can expect these new variants to feature:
- All-black exterior elements including grille, alloy wheels, and skid plates
- Dark chrome accents replacing standard chrome finishes
- Knight Edition badging on the exterior
- Black or dark-themed interior with red accents
- Special upholstery with contrast stitching
- Additional feature enhancements over standard variants
The Knight Edition treatment typically builds on higher-end variants of each model, ensuring that customers get a comprehensive package of features along with the exclusive design elements. Let's look at what each model in the expanded Knight Edition lineup offers.
i20 Knight Edition: Premium Hatchback Gets Darker
The i20 has been one of Hyundai's most successful premium hatchbacks in India, and the Knight Edition aims to enhance its appeal further. Based on dealer sources and industry reports, the i20 Knight Edition will likely be based on the Asta or Asta (O) variant.
The exterior changes are expected to include:
- Blacked-out front grille with dark chrome surround
- Dark-finished 16-inch alloy wheels
- Black ORVMs and roof
- Dark chrome door handles
- Knight Edition emblem on the tailgate
Inside, the i20 Knight Edition will likely feature:
- All-black interior theme with red accents
- Black leatherette seats with red stitching
- Red ambient lighting
- Knight Edition specific floor mats
The i20 Knight Edition is expected to retain the 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol and 1.0L turbocharged petrol engine options from the standard model. The 1.0L turbo-petrol produces 120PS and 172Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful engines in its segment.
Alcazar Knight Edition: The Flagship 7-Seater Gets the Dark Treatment
The Alcazar, Hyundai's three-row SUV, will also receive the Knight Edition treatment. As Hyundai's premium offering in the segment, the Alcazar Knight Edition is likely to be positioned as an even more upscale option.
Expected exterior modifications include:
- Dark chrome front grille with Knight Edition design elements
- Blacked-out 18-inch alloy wheels
- Dark skid plates front and rear
- Black roof rails and side steps
- Knight Edition badging
Inside, the Alcazar Knight Edition could feature:
- All-black interior with red or copper accents
- Premium black leatherette upholstery with contrast stitching
- Knight Edition branded elements throughout the cabin
- Specialized ambient lighting package
The Alcazar Knight Edition will likely be offered with both the 2.0L petrol engine (159PS/191Nm) and the 1.5L diesel engine (115PS/250Nm), paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
Creta Electric: Hyundai's Big Move into the Electric SUV Segment
Perhaps the most exciting news in this expansion is Hyundai's planned introduction of the Creta Electric. This marks a significant step in Hyundai's electrification strategy for the Indian market, building on the success of the Kona Electric.
According to industry reports, the Creta Electric is expected to be launched in 2024, positioning it as a competitor to upcoming electric SUVs from Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Tata Motors. The Creta Electric will likely share its platform with the recently unveiled Kia Seltos EV for the global market.
Expected Features and Specifications of Creta Electric
While official details remain limited, based on Hyundai's current electric vehicle technology and industry trends, we can make some informed predictions about the Creta Electric:
- Battery capacity: Likely between 45-55 kWh
- Estimated range: 400-450 km on a single charge
- Fast charging capability: 10-80% in approximately 30-40 minutes
- Power output: Approximately 136-150 PS
- Unique design elements distinguishing it from the ICE Creta
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as standard
- Enhanced connected car technology with EV-specific features
The Creta Electric will likely receive some design changes compared to its internal combustion engine counterpart, including a closed-off front grille, aerodynamic wheels, blue accents typical of Hyundai EVs, and possibly a redesigned rear section to accommodate the electric powertrain.
Market Positioning and Expected Pricing
The Creta Electric is likely to be positioned as a premium electric SUV in the Indian market. With the current Creta pricing ranging from approximately ₹10-18 lakh (ex-showroom), the electric version could be priced between ₹20-25 lakh, positioning it against competitors like the MG ZS EV and the upcoming Maruti eVX.
This pricing strategy would place it below the Kona Electric, which currently retails at around ₹23-24 lakh, creating a more accessible entry point into Hyundai's electric SUV lineup. Industry analysts suggest that this pricing strategy would help Hyundai capture a significant share of the growing electric SUV market in India.
Knight Edition Pricing Strategy
For the Knight Edition models, Hyundai typically employs a premium pricing strategy. Based on the existing Knight Editions in the lineup:
i20 Knight Edition Expected Pricing
The i20 currently retails between ₹7-12 lakh (ex-showroom). The Knight Edition, likely based on higher variants, could be priced at a premium of ₹15,000-20,000 over the corresponding standard variants, placing it in the ₹11-12.5 lakh range.
Alcazar Knight Edition Expected Pricing
With the standard Alcazar priced between ₹16-21 lakh (ex-showroom), the Knight Edition could command a premium of ₹20,000-25,000, positioning it in the ₹18-22 lakh range depending on the variant and powertrain choices.
Market Impact and Competition
The expansion of the Knight Edition lineup comes at a time when special editions are gaining popularity across segments. Competitors like Tata Motors with its Dark Edition and Kaziranga Edition, and Maruti Suzuki with its S-Edition models, have found success with similar strategies.
For Hyundai, these special editions serve multiple purposes:
- Creating renewed interest in existing models without major mechanical changes
- Offering higher-margin products to boost profitability
- Attracting younger buyers who prefer distinctive styling
- Maintaining market visibility between major model refreshes
- Creating a consistent sub-brand identity across the lineup
The Knight Edition expansion, coupled with the introduction of the Creta Electric, demonstrates Hyundai's dual-track strategy of enhancing its conventional lineup while simultaneously pushing toward electrification.
When Can We Expect These Models?
According to dealer sources and industry reports, the i20 Knight Edition and Alcazar Knight Edition are expected to be launched in the coming months, potentially before the festive season to capitalize on the higher sales during that period.
The Creta Electric, being a more significant product introduction, is expected to arrive in 2024, possibly in the first half of the year. Hyundai may showcase a concept or near-production version at the 2023 Auto Expo to build anticipation.
Final Thoughts: Hyundai's Strategy Unfolds
The expansion of the Knight Edition lineup and the upcoming launch of the Creta Electric reflect Hyundai's strategic approach to the Indian market. By offering special editions of popular models, Hyundai is able to keep its lineup fresh and exciting without major investments in all-new models.
At the same time, the Creta Electric represents Hyundai's commitment to the future of mobility in India. With the government pushing for increased electric vehicle adoption and consumers becoming more receptive to EVs, the timing seems right for Hyundai to expand its electric offerings beyond the premium Kona Electric.
For consumers, these developments mean more choices across the spectrum – from stylish special editions for those who want to stand out, to forward-looking electric options for early adopters of new technology. As these models roll out in the coming months, we'll get a clearer picture of Hyundai's execution and how well these strategies resonate with Indian car buyers.
The Knight Edition expansion, alongside the electric push, positions Hyundai well to maintain its strong presence in the Indian market through 2023 and beyond. It will be interesting to see how competitors respond and whether this special edition strategy extends to other models in Hyundai's lineup in the future.