All-new Hyundai i20 unveiled with striking design and mild hybrid engine



Originally scheduled to be launched early next month, Hyundai has unveiled the all-new i20 ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, following the leaks that has been circulating online.

On the outside, the all-new Hyundai i20 carries a striking design featuring Hyundai’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language. Most notably is the more dynamic stance of the car, thanks to the wider body and lowered roof.

The all-new i20 stands out with its use of sharp angles and creases, especially on the front and rear bumpers. Up front, the large grille dominates the front fascia, with the slim headlights integrated neatly into the “wings” of the front grille.

The rear of the all-new i20 is characterised by the LED taillights, which runs across the entire width of the tailgate. Hyundai says that the new lighting signature further emphasises the width and dynamic stance of the i20.

Looking from the side, the wedge-style shape is amplified through a prominent (if not a tad busy) character line, as well as an unique C-pillar design. The two-tone roof and large 17-inch wheels complete the sporty look of the Volkswagen Polo rival.

Inside, Hyundai says that the all-new interior of the Hyundai i20 offers enhanced aesthetics, comfort, and best-in-class connectivity. Although the interior of the supermini has not been revealed yet, Hyundai has published a detailed sketch which provides us a good look at the newly redesigned cabin.

The dashboard now features a sculptured look that continues from door to door. Sitting up high on the dashboard are the two 10.25-inch displays – one each for the infotainment and instrument cluster. The infotainment display sits above the horizontal “blades” which runs across the entire width of the dashboard, hiding the air-con vents.

The all-new Hyundai i20 comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with Hyundai’s Blue Link system, which includes a navigation system with live traffic updates from TomTom, and remote access through a mobile application.

Hyundai has also included the brand’s Smart Sense advance driver assistance suite, which includes safety and convenience features such as Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Assist with rear collision avoidance and cross-traffic alert, Driver Attention Warning, and High-Beam Assist.

Under the hood, the all-new Hyundai i20 will be offered with three different powertrain options, starting with the entry-level 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine with 84 hp, paired to a five-speed manual transmission.

A 1.0-litre turbocharged engine is also available on the B-segment hatchback, in either 100 hp or 120 hp guises. A 48-volt mild hybrid system can be applied to the engine, either as an option for the 100 hp or as standard with the 120 hp.

According to Hyundai, the mild-hybrid system contributes to a three to four percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The mild-hybrid powertrain can be paired to a seven-speed DCT gearbox, or a six-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT), which decouples the engine from the transmission automatically when coasting.

The non-hybrid 1.0-litre turbocharged engine will be available with the seven-speed DCT or a regular manual six-speeder.