The Indian automotive market has seen a massive shift toward SUVs and crossovers, but Hyundai remains committed to compact sedans. The 2025 Hyundai Xcent marks the return of a model that was discontinued in 2020, now redesigned to cater to modern consumers.
With its premium design, upgraded interior, and advanced powertrains, the new Xcent proves that sedans still have a place in India’s evolving car landscape.
After spending two days driving the car through Chennai’s bustling streets and open highways, it’s clear that Hyundai has put significant effort into improving every aspect of the Xcent. From its sophisticated design to its feature-packed cabin and efficient powertrains, here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
Design
The 2025 Xcent features an all-new design that aligns with Hyundai’s global styling language. It has a sleek yet sophisticated look, with clean body lines and a more premium stance. The larger front grille with a parametric pattern gives it a bold look, while the slim LED headlamps contribute to a modern front fascia.
The wheelbase has been extended to 2,475mm, improving both proportions and interior space. At the rear, a connected LED taillight strip enhances the car’s width and sportiness, while newly designed alloy wheels complete the stylish look.
Despite retaining its sub-4-meter length of 3,995mm, the Xcent has grown slightly in width and reduced in height for a sportier stance. The color palette includes classic shades along with vibrant options like Starry Night Blue, Sage Green, and Fiery Red.
Interior
Step inside, and the Xcent’s interior feels like a significant leap over its predecessor. The dashboard has a clean, horizontal layout with a two-tier design that gives a premium feel. The cabin is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the higher trims get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
The use of soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors adds to the luxurious feel. A flat-bottom steering wheel, borrowed from Hyundai’s premium models, enhances the sporty appeal.
The center console now includes a wireless charging pad with a cooling function. Rear passengers benefit from dedicated AC vents and dual USB-C charging ports. Hyundai has improved seat comfort with enhanced bolstering for the front seats and a better rear seat cushion angle for more thigh support.
The longer wheelbase also adds 20mm more legroom, making the cabin spacious for a subcompact sedan. Despite its compact size, the trunk offers a generous 402 liters of storage capacity, making it highly practical for long drives and family trips.
Powertrain Options
Hyundai offers three powertrain choices, ensuring a balance of efficiency, performance, and alternative fuel compatibility. The 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 83 HP and 114 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic, delivering a claimed mileage of 20.5 km/l.
The 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine is a more powerful option, generating 100 HP and 172 Nm of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch automatic), offering a sportier driving experience and an estimated mileage of 19.2 km/l.
For eco-conscious buyers, Hyundai has introduced a factory-fitted CNG variant with the 1.2-liter engine. In CNG mode, it produces 69 HP and 95 Nm of torque. The dual ECU system allows seamless switching between petrol and CNG, and the tank is neatly placed under the trunk floor to maintain cargo space. The CNG variant delivers an impressive mileage of 28.4 km/kg.
Driving Experience
Hyundai has made significant improvements to the Xcent’s ride quality and handling. It rides on an updated K1 platform with better suspension tuning for reduced impact harshness over bumps while maintaining good high-speed stability.
The MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension have been fine-tuned to provide a comfortable yet controlled ride. Larger front disc brakes offer improved stopping power, and refined noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels ensure a quieter cabin experience.
During the test drive, the turbocharged engine paired with the 7-speed DCT stood out, offering smooth gear shifts and strong low-end torque, making it ideal for overtaking and highway cruising. The steering response has been improved, making city driving effortless while maintaining good feedback at higher speeds.
Advanced Technology
Hyundai has equipped the 2025 Xcent with segment-leading technology to enhance convenience and safety. The infotainment system features a 10.25-inch touchscreen with OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Hyundai BlueLink connected car technology. BlueLink offers remote start, climate control, geo-fencing, and real-time vehicle tracking.
Safety has also been prioritized, with six airbags now standard across all variants. Other features include ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Higher variants also get lane departure warning and driver attention monitoring.
The inclusion of ADAS-inspired features makes the Xcent one of the safest compact sedans in its class. Voice control functionality has also been expanded, allowing drivers to adjust climate settings, audio, and navigation hands-free.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Hyundai has priced the 2025 Xcent competitively, offering premium features while maintaining affordability. The base 1.2-liter petrol manual variant starts at ₹6.49 lakh, while the CVT automatic version costs ₹7.59 lakh.
The 1.0-liter turbo petrol variant is priced at ₹8.99 lakh for the manual and ₹10.15 lakh for the DCT automatic. The CNG variant is available at ₹7.69 lakh, making it an economical choice for buyers looking to reduce fuel costs.
Hyundai aims to sell around 6,000-7,000 units per month, with an estimated 65% of buyers being private owners and 35% fleet customers.
The Verdict
The 2025 Hyundai Xcent successfully modernizes the compact sedan segment by offering a balance of style, space, technology, and efficiency. While SUVs dominate the market, the Xcent proves that sedans still hold strong appeal, especially for buyers who value a comfortable ride, a proper boot, and excellent fuel economy.
With premium interiors, a tech-packed cabin, and multiple engine options, the Xcent presents a compelling alternative to compact SUVs. If Hyundai maintains competitive pricing and strong after-sales support, the Xcent is set to revive and redefine the compact sedan market in India.
FAQs
What is the launch date of the 2025 Hyundai Xcent?
The new Hyundai Xcent is expected to launch in mid-2025.
What is the mileage of the Hyundai Xcent?
The petrol variant offers up to 20.5 km/l, and the CNG variant delivers 28.4 km/kg.
Does the Xcent come with a turbo engine?
Yes, the 1.0L Turbo petrol engine produces 100 HP and offers a sportier drive.
What safety features does the 2025 Xcent have?
It includes 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-start assist, and more.
What is the expected price of the new Hyundai Xcent?
Pricing starts at ₹6.49 lakh for the base model and goes up to ₹10.15 lakh.
