EXCLUSIVE: Facelifted Hyundai i20’s Testing Begins In India

• The test mule was only disguised from the front and rear.

• Expected to get only minor design changes.

• A glimpse into its interiors revealed the presence of a dash cam.

• Should get the same engine options as the outgoing model: an 83PS 1.2-litre N/A petrol and a 120PS 1-litre turbo-petrol.

• Expected to be priced from around Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.

The Hyundai i20 has been due for an update and with the unveiling of its updated model in Europe, we have been waiting for the facelift model to hit the Indian shores. Now, a test mule of the facelifted Hyundai i20 has been spied on Indian roads for the first time, the design will likely be in line with the European model, save for minor country-spec changes.

What’s Different

Looking at the test mule, which is partially disguised, the changes in design are majorly happening on the front and rear profile of the hatchback. In the spy shots, the side profile is identical to the current i20 with a slight change in the design of the alloy wheels.

While the photographer was unable to click the fascia, as per the Euro model we can expect it to get mild changes like a revised bumper and grille design.

At the rear, the tail lamps look similar to the one on the current model, but may be slightly tweaked and the disguise could be hiding a connecting element like on the current i20. What's new here is the presence of two reflector elements on both sides, and the rear bumper looks redesigned as well.

What’s On The Inside

As of now, there are no spy shots of its cabin, but in one of the spy shots of its exterior, we get a glimpse of its interior. Here, you can see that the facelifted i20 has a dash cam installed, likely a feature addition. Hyundai also offers the Venue N Line with this feature and it will be present on the Hyundai Exter as well. Apart from this, we expect revised upholstery, a new cabin theme and a slightly tweaked dashboard design.

Also Read: Here’s Your First Official Look At The Hyundai Exter’s Rear Profile 

Same Powertrain

The facelifted Hyundai i20 will most likely retain the engine options of the outgoing model: a 1.2-litre petrol engine (83PS/114Nm) and a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine (120PS/172Nm). The former is paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT gearbox and the latter comes with a 7-speed DCT.

New Features

While details of the facelifted i20 are slim, we can expect it to get some features over the current model like ventilated front seats, ambient lighting and more connected car tech. Apart from these, other features are likely to be carried over including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an air purifier, a wireless phone charger, a single pane sunroof, up to six airbags, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera and electronic stability control (ESC).

Price and Rivals

The facelifted Hyundai i20 is expected to be priced from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards and could be launched this festive season. Once launched, it will continue its rivalry with the Tata Altroz, Maruti Baleno and Toyota Glanza.

Also See: Here’s A Peek At The Facelifted Hyundai Tucson Snapped In Germany