Hyundai’s Casper Gets a Makeover: What’s Changing in the New Design?

Hyundai Casper gets a partial makeover
Test vehicle spotted, stirring excitement
Significant changes to the front end

The Hyundai Casper, a compact car that emerged 24 years after the Atos, is in full swing, preparing for a facelift. The prototype has been spotted, drawing attention, while a facelifted version is expected to launch in the second half of this year, following its initial release in September 2021.

Previously, prototypes of the Casper Electric were spotted on multiple occasions, but these latest spy shots appear to be of an internal combustion engine model. The bold design changes are so noticeable they can’t be hidden, even with a camouflage cover.

LED Headlights Implemented
Sharper Edges on the Grille

On the 20th, the spy shots of Casper’s facelift model were posted on the Naver Blog, “Eden Carspatch.” This is the second time a prototype has been spotted since its first appearance in December last year. The new model will change most front-end components, including the headlights, bumpers, and grille. The turn signals and daytime running lights (DRL) appear to maintain their original locations and shapes.

On the other hand, the halogen-type headlights are being replaced with a vertical, two-unit LED layout. The radiator grille is getting wider for a more stable look, and the edges are becoming sharper with the addition of a border. However, it’s not yet known whether the air intake of the turbo model will remain the same or if it will be unified with the new design.

New Wheels Resemble the Avante N
Bumper Details Improved

The new wheels also catch the eye. Unlike the current 5- to 6-spoke design, bold 4-spoke wheels are added. Interestingly, each spoke features a circular detail reminiscent of the Avante N. This design is confirmed for 17-inch wheels, and there’s a possibility that the basic 15-inch steel wheels may also change, although the changes are expected to be minor due to the material’s properties.

The rear appears to retain the current design of the taillights, including the turn signals. However, as inferred from the camouflage’s outline, the bumper seems to have improved details. Unlike the current model, where the lower part of the bumper connects to the wheelhouse cladding, the new model has a uniform color for the body. The rear-side sensors have been moved further out.

EPB and auto hold added
Launch likely in Q4

Although the interior of the new Casper has yet to be spotted, like the Casper Electric, the center display is expected to get larger; according to industry sources, it’s expected to support wireless CarPlay and the latest UI. The transmission range, which used to be P-R-N-D-L, will see a design change. The L will be replaced with + and – for greater flexibility in manual transmission mode.

In addition, major product changes are expected, including an electronic parking brake (EPB), auto hold, and an around view. The launch will likely take place in this year’s fourth quarter. The electric model, Casper Electric, is expected to be released first, followed by the internal combustion engine facelift model. Due to the ongoing economic downturn and resulting consumer reticence, a minimal price increase is expected.