The next-gen 2020 Hyundai i20 has been spied testing
for the first time, courtesy IAB reader Robin Manidas. The all-new model was
being tested along with the next-gen 2019 Hyundai Grand i10 near the company’s
Sriperumbudur plant. The next-gen Hyundai i20 appears to have a familiar
shape that gives it a sharper and mature, typically European style. Hyundai’s
full model changes tend to be usually quite extensive, and the same exercise is
expected for the i20 this time. With the next lifecycle makeover, the
sub-compact hatchback will move to its third generation.
The 2020 Hyundai i20 has a wide and low body that
gives it a squat stance that is similar to that of the outgoing model. The
beltline, greenhouse and tailgate all appear to have a great degree of
commonality with the current model. The ORVMs appear to be sleeker and the rear
quarter glass seems to have been removed to let the rear passengers have an
unobstructed view outside. It goes without saying that the redesigned model
will have new, LED headlights and tail lights.
Inside, the all-new Hyundai i20 will likely feature
a more elegantly designed dashboard, more comfortable seats and maybe a few
elements borrowed from the Hyundai Venue, including the compact steering wheel,
the floating touchscreen infotainment system and the instrument cluster.
Hyundai has been known to bring revolutions in this segment in our market, and
so, it’s only logical to expect a few first-in-segment comfort and convenience
and connectivity features onboard. The latter will likely include the Blue Link
suite borrowed from the sub-4 metre SUV.
The third generation supermini will likely sit on an
upgraded platform of the old car. Expect it to come with the upgraded, BS-VI
versions of the outgoing model’s 83 PS 1.2L N/A petrol engine and 90 PS 1.4L
turbocharged diesel engines. The petrol engine may come linked to a standard
5-speed MT or an optional CVT. The diesel engine, similarly, should remain
paired with a 6-speed MT.
The new generation Hyundai i20 might be the perfect
opportunity for the Hyundai N division to enter India, possibly with an N Line
or N variant sporting the 1.0L T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine married to a
7-speed DCT. Last month, Albert Biermann, President and Head of R&D,
Hyundai Motor Group, had said that Hyundai N will enter India within three
years.
The 1.0L T-GDI engine, developed to be offered in
100 PS and 120 PS versions, is now manufactured in India, and the Hyundai Venue
is its first recipient here. Obviously, there must be a plan to offer it in
more models to capitalise the heavy investment made in localising it. In fact,
Puneet Anand, Sr. General Manager & Group Head – Marketing, Hyundai
(India), has suggested that this engine will be offered in the next-gen i20.
The next-gen Hyundai 20 is said to arrive by
mid-2020 (May-August 2020).
