Autocar has just received pictures of the next generation Hyundai i20, months ahead of its global reveal. As seen in our illustration, the new i20 features clean crisp lines and very few exaggerated ‘fluidic’ like flourishes.
The design language is in fact very similar to that seen on the Grand i10 and the Xcent, with plenty of Peugeot influence on the nose. The low mounted grille forms the focal point of the design - the headlights, bonnet ‘V’ and even the strong shoulder line emanating from there. The upturned headlights have metal inserts that give definition to the over all design, the placement of the number plate is also interesting.
The overall stance of the car is also sporty. The rising shoulder line and sloping roof meet at the steeply angled ‘C’ (or rearmost) pillar. What also work well are the elongated wrap around tail lights, which make the rear of the car look up-market and very European.
With its long wheelbase and ample cabin, it is also clear that this new i20 will be large and comfortable on the inside. Expected to go on sale in India sometime in September, the new i20 will come with a raft of new and exciting technology, both on the inside and out. Hyundai’s smooth running 89bhp 1.4-litre diesel will be the mainstay here and 83bhp 1.2-litre petrol Kappa engine will be carried over from the Xcent as well. The new i20 will come with a five speed automatic gearbox . In addition, Hyundai is also thought to be looking at a sportier ‘N’ or performance version of the new i20, to counter the sporty stance of its main competitor the Swift.
Loaded with plenty of equipment on the inside and well priced, in typical Hyundai fashion, the i20 has the potential to disrupt the status quo in its class. Question is, how well will it drive? Answers coming up, in the not too distant future.