Next-gen Hyundai Elite i20: Launch timeline revealed

Hyundai will launch an all-new version of the Elite i20 premium hatchback before the middle of 2020. The new hatchback is expected to use the same platform and engines but with new emission and safety norms compliance. It’ll continue to sit in the same segment as the current model, squaring off against the likes of the Maruti Baleno and the Volkswagen Polo GT.

Render courtesy Gaadiwaadi

According to Autocar, the new Hyundai Elite i20 will be more feature rich than the current model. It’s also expected to get more spacious and quieter. The top-end variants could also offer a sunroof – a feature that Indian car buyers love. Engines and gearboxes could be retained, which means that the petrol motor will be a 1.2 liter unit making 82 Bhp-115 Nm, and the diesel motor will be a 1.4 liter turbocharged unit with 89 Bhp-220 Nm.

Hyundai will debut a new 1 liter-3 cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with over 110 Bhp on tap in the upcoming QXi/Styx compact SUV. This motor could be offered on the new Elite i20 as well. What is for certain though is emission compliance with the upcoming Bharat Stage 6 norms by whichever engine Hyundai decides to offer in the new i20. We’re leaning towards turbocharged petrol and diesel engines and it’s easier to meet emission norms using this approach.

The new Elite i20 is likely to be made ready to accept hybrid and all-electric power trains as this is the direction that the car industry is taking. However, at launch, the new car is unlikely to be offered with such power trains. Currently, Hyundai sells over 10,000 copies of the Elite i20 hatchback in the Indian market each month. The facelifted version of the car, which was launched earlier this year at the Auto Expo, is selling very well. Prices of the Elite i20 start from Rs. 5.43 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi. The new model is likely to be priced at similar levels.