The Covid-19 outbreak has left the entire world stranded, let alone the automotive industry. Because of that, indefinitely postponing the product launches was the way forward. At least that’s what everyone felt. But Hyundai Motor India, it seems, couldn’t adapt that strategy as it has silently launched the Verna facelift. Prices start at Rs 9.31 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 15.1 lakh. Here’s how the complete price list looks like:

With those numbers out of the way, let’s concentrate on some more. The Hyundai Verna facelift comes with three engine and transmission options. The 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines produce 113bhp, but where the former delivers a maximum of 144Nm of torque, the diesel goes up to  250Nm. As standard, both power-plants come mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Those who want a two-pedal setup can opt for a CVT (IVT in Hyundai’s world) with the petrol engine, and a 6-speed torque converter AT with the diesel. In case you didn’t notice, all four engine-transmission combinations come directly from the new Creta.

The last engine-transmission grouping comes from the Hyundai Venue. It comprises of a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Don’t frown because the total output comes out at 118bhp/172Nm. What’s more, the sole variant that gets this powertrain gets “Turbo” badging, paddle shifters and a sporty, all-black interior theme with red accents. The rest of the range makes do with a dual-tone, black-and-beige finish.

Being a Hyundai, the Verna comes loaded with features. The standard list includes dual airbags, rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX anchorages, glovebox cooling, rear AC vents, all four power windows, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a multi-function steering wheel. Go for higher variants and gizmos such as BlueLink Connected-Car tech, electric sunroof, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, push-button start/stop, handsfree boot-lid opening, telescopic steering adjust, six airbags, wireless phone charger and projector fog lamps come part of the package.

There’s no way to say this – it is sad to see Hyundai running a silent launch for the Verna facelift. But we are all going through a tough time. In India, the refreshed Verna competes with the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Honda City, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Vento and the Skoda Rapid. Apart from the Verna only the City, which should get a generation change later this year, will retain a diesel engine.