New gen Hyundai i20 has not only grown in size and comfort, but also offers more features and technology. It will replace the i20 Elite in India upon launch.
Ahead of its global debut next month at 2020 Geneva Motor Show, Hyundai i20 next-gen’s official sketch has been released by the Korean automaker. The car has already been spotted on road tests in India as well as at international locations. As is evident, next-gen i20 will come with a range of style updates, advanced features and new engine options.
Already a good looking car in its class, i20’s latest iteration is a lot sharper and sportier. However, the hatch continues to use the silhouette and core design of its predecessor. Some design elements of next-gen i20 have been borrowed from other Hyundai cars. For example, the bumper gets a lot groovier, similar to the one seen on recently unveiled Hyundai Aura sedan. We can also see the headlights seamlessly merging with the signature cascading grille, a design update that was earlier introduced in latest Elantra.
Overall, it appears that Hyundai has been quite selective in choosing design updates for next-gen i20. Only a few iterations that improve the car’s styling in a subtle way have been implemented. Hyundai may have wanted to avoid risky design makeovers, as the hatch is already one of the bestsellers in the company’s portfolio. In terms of dimensions, there is unlikely to be any major change.
On the inside, next-gen i20 will continue to offer premium features. There’s a large 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital instrument cluster that seems to be inspired from the unit installed on ix25 (new Creta) in China. A new multifunction steering wheel is another key addition in next-gen i20. The hatch will come with features such as automatic climate control, wireless charging, rear AC vents, push button start/stop, and front and rear armrests.
In terms of technology upgrades, new i20 gets the advanced BlueLink connected tech. Customers can use BlueLink to access a range of smart features such as real time vehicle monitoring, automatic crash notifications, vehicle health reports, remote start/stop and lock/unlock, and vehicle immobilizer.
Engine options for new i20 include a 1.2-litre BS6 compliant petrol engine, capable of delivering 83 hp of max power and 114 Nm of max torque. A 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine could also be launched, which is already in use in Venue. Diesel option will comprise a new 1.5-litre BS6 unit, capable of delivering about 90hp. This engine is a detuned version of the 1.5-litre unit that is currently in use in Kia Seltos.
Next-gen Hyundai i20 is expected to go on sale in India in June 2020. It will take on rivals such as Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Ford Freestyle, Tata Altroz, and Honda Jazz.
