Kathmandu: Laxmi Intercontinental, the sole authorised distributor of Hyundai automobiles in Nepal, launched the fifth generation of Verna in the Nepali market on November 13 at an event held at the Hyundai showroom in Thapathali.

“The Next Gen Verna is here to redefine what a modern sedan stands for. Its human-centric technology is what makes it truly intelligent by design,” said Rupesh Sharma Bhatta, Deputy General Manager – Sales & Marketing at Laxmi Intercontinental.

The 2017 Verna is available in three variants—EX, SX and EX (AT)—with a choice of manual and automatic gear shifts. The introductory price of Verna is Rs 42,96,000 for the EX variant, Rs 44,96,000 for the SX variant and Rs 46,96,000 for EX with automatic transmission. The fifth generation Verna is powered by a 1,591cc engine which produces a maximum power of 121.3 bhp at 6,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 151 Nm at 4,850 rpm. It has a top speed of 196 kmph and is equipped with a six-speed gearbox.

The next gen Verna comes with an all-new K2 platform which enables precise tuning of key suspension components for enhanced cornering and high-speed stability. Its ‘hot stamping applications’ reportedly provide the Verna with best-in-class body rigidity, structural changes and crash performance, thus offering superior performance and safety.

The new model features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with audio and video navigation, seat height adjuster, rear seat armrest cup holder, centre console storage, luggage lamp and cooled glove box. It comes with projector headlamps, LED DRLs and a chrome accented grille in front, while at the rear it sports LED tail lamps, shark fin antenna, hood character lines, muscular dual-tone bumper and a chrome garnish. The car boasts a sunroof and rear windshield blinds and features cruise control, rear AC vents, ventilated seats and fold down arm rests for rear passengers. Connectivity options in the car include Bluetooth, USB, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The new Verna is available in five colours — Phantom Black, Sleek Silver, Fiery Red, Stardust, Siena Brown and Polar White.