By Otsile Kadiege

Hyundai Motor recently updated the i20 with fresh looks, new tech and a comprehensive suite of safety systems.

Updated exterior

The updated i20 has a reworked front bumper, as well as the radiator grille, with sporty yet elegant elements. The rear features a redesigned bumper and a unique taillight design. Newly designed 16- and 17-inch wheels have been added.

There are eight exterior colours and an optional black two-tone roof to choose from. Three exterior colours are brand-new: Lucid Lime Metallic, Lumen Grey Pearl, and Meta Blue Pearl. Returning colours include Atlas White, Phantom Black Pearl, Aurora Grey Pearl, Dragon Red Pearl, and Mangrove Green Pearl.

Updated interior

The new Hyundai i20 comes packed with the latest connectivity features that make the in-car experience even more convenient for occupants. The model has been upgraded with a standard 4.2-inch LCD cluster, USB type-C, second-generation eCall based on the 4G network, and Over-the-Air (OTA) map updates.

Some markets get the optional 10.25-inch cluster and 10.25-inch touch display screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless device charger, and the latest update to Bluelink telematics. For better in-car illumination the refreshed model has replaced lightbulbs with LED technology and now features multicoloured ambient lights. The car comes available with a BOSE Premium Sound System which will most likely be reserved for European markets.

More standard safety features

More Hyundai Smart Sense safety features now come as standard. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) for ‘City’, ‘Interurban’, and ‘Pedestrian’ now includes ‘Cyclist’. FCA helps detect and avoid potential accidents with obstacles ahead. Lane Following Assist (LFA) ensures that the vehicle stays in the current lane of travel.

For additional peace of mind, optional safety systems are also available. These include Rear Cross-traffic Collision Assist (RCCA), Blind-spot Collision-avoidance Assist (BCA) and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC).

Powertrains

In Europe, the updated Hyundai i20 is powered by a 1.0 T-GDi engine – available with 100 PS (74kW) or 120 PS (88kW). It’s paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) or a six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT).

Production of the new i20 is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2023 at Hyundai’s manufacturing plant in Izmit, Turkey. Further variants will follow. Hyundai SA is yet to confirm local availability.