After a teaser earlier on this month, Hyundai decided to release a new set of images and further details on its new i20 supermini. At the Paris autoshow, we’ll only see a five-door model but according to Hyundai, a sportier 3dr i20 variant will debut sometime in January 2009.
Based on an all-new platform with a 2,525mm wheelbase, the i20 is lower, longer and wider than the Getz it replaces. Designed and developed in Europe, the i20’s exterior styling is clearly inspired from the i30.
The i20 will offer numerous ‘smart’ storage spaces along with a 40:60 split flat-folding rear bench with a low lip for easy loading into the 295 litre luggage compartment.
The i20 will debut with a range of seven petrol and diesel engines. The petrol line-up comprises of the 78PS 1.2 litre, 100PS 1.4 litre and 126PS 1.6 litre engines all available with five-speed manual transmissions, with the option of four speed automatic on the 1.4 and 1.6 models. Turbo diesel powerplants in the i20 will be offered with a 1.4 litre engine, which is available in two specifications – 75PS and 90PS – while the flagship 1.6 litre oil-burner is available in 115PS and 128PS trim and emits just 125g/km of CO2. The 1.4 litre CRDi is likely to emit 118g/km of CO2. Both 1.4 models come with five-speed manual transmissions, while the flagship 1.6 is mated to a six-gear manual drivetrain.
When the i20 goes on sale in Europe later this year, it will be offered in four trim levels – Classic, Comfort, Style and Premium. All models will feature six-airbags, ABS, climate control, a four-speaker radio, CD and MP3 audio system, a multi-function steering wheel, tyre pressure monitoring system, height-adjustable driver seat, keyless entry and electrically windows and electrically operated mirrors as standard. UK flagship Premium models are most likely to be equipped with 4x electric windows with bounce back - a system that stops the window from going up if something is obstructing its path, heated front seats, leather interior, steering wheel with audio controls and gearstick, cruise control, 6 speaker audio system, alloy wheels and ESP. The only customer option will be metallic & mica paint, although Smartnav satellite navigation system could be included aswell. Expect heaps of accessories available for customers too.
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