The only chink in the highly successful Hyundai Elite i20’s armour is the lack of an automatic variant. When the new gen model landed, the 1.4-litre (petrol)/ 4-speed AT powertrain combo was dropped.
Zigwheels reports that Hyundai is not far away from introducing a petrol automatic variant. The new addition to the variant lineup is expected in the festive season.
The automatic i20 is expected to enhance the hatchback’s appeal among urban audience.It remains to be whether Hyundai will introduce automatic transmission with the existing 1.2-litre Kappa motor or bring back the 100 PS 1.4-litre petrol motor. The latter, being an imported engine, would shoot the costs up significantly. Not to mention, it would make the variant ineligible for sub-4m excise duty benefits.
The Hyundai i20 automatic will compete with the automatic variants like VW Polo GT TSI (7-speed DSG), Maruti Baleno (CVT) and Honda Jazz (CVT). The inclusion of clutchless variant would help Hyundai boost the already healthy i20 sales volumes in India.
Hyundai could extend the autobox to the i20 Active as well if there is enough demand.Hyundai India officials earlier stated that the company is not too keen of AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) since its a transient technology. The company would prefer conventional automatic models.
Also read – Hyundai Creta 1st Anniversary Edition launched
In addition to the Hyundai i20 automatic, the South Korean automaker is also gearing up to introduce the new gen Elantra sedan in India before the end of this year.
Hyundai Creta 1st Anniversary Edition – Photos
Via – Zigwheels.com
