Following the official teaser images, Hyundai has finally unveiled the new-generation i20, ahead of its world debut at the Paris Motor Show in October this year.
According to the carmaker, the popularity of the original i20 has made it one of the company’s best-selling cars in the European region. The key aims of the new model are to open Hyundai to an even wider audience with fresh design through the introduction of a new design language called Fludic Scuplture 2.0. The overall architecture was penned at Hyundai Motor’s Design Centre Europe in Rüsselsheim, Germany and it is based on a new platform.
The new-gen i20 features a 2570 mm wheelbase – 45 mm longer than its predecessor – providing European customers with one of the most spacious cabins in the segment. Efficient packaging has created a passenger compartment that can comfortably seat five adults. Combined front and rear legroom is best in class at 1892 mm. The 326-litres boot space, when the rear seats are upright is also claimed segment leading.
Apart from that, the new i20 comes standard with panoramic sunroof that is able to tilt and fully open. Additionally, the new i20 also comes equipped with rear-view camera and front LED lighting.
In terms of looks, the upright chrome-framed hexagonal grille has been lowered for design and engineering purposes. A thin, horizontal grille connects the front headlamp clusters, which include bi-function projection headlamps, LED daytime running lights and LED positioning lamps. A lower grille houses the front fog lamps, and emphasises the powerful stance of the car.
The 4035 mm long bodyshell incorporates a single feature-line running the length of the vehicle, sculptured undercuts of the body panels, and a waistline moulding at the base of the door.
At the rear, the new-gen i20 features a gloss-finished black C-pillar that gives the impression of a floating roofline. The lamp clusters wrap around the rear wing into the trunk lid and feature a ‘boomerang’-shaped LED design.
In terms of powertrains, buyers will be able to choose from an 84bhp 1.2-litre petrol or an 89bhp 1.4-litre diesel with a five-speed manual transmission. A 99bhp 1.4-litre petrol option could also be offered, but only in conjunction with a four-speed automatic. A hotter performance variant of the i20, badged under Hyundai’s N performance brand, is expected to arrive later.
Hyundai has yet to announce the price of the new generation i2o but it is set to go on sale in Europe in early 2015.
Source: Hyundai
