Next Generation Hyundai i20 Spotted Testing With Fresh Design and Hybrid i20 N on the Way
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The next generation Hyundai i20 has been spotted testing in Europe, giving us an early look at what Hyundai is preparing for its popular small hatchback. The current i20 has been on sale for more than six years, and while it remains competitive, especially in i20 N form, Hyundai is now working on a complete redesign.
The new model appears set to bring major styling changes, updated technology, new powertrain options, and even an electric version for the first time.
New Hyundai i20 Design Takes Inspiration From Santa Fe
One of the biggest changes can be seen in the overall shape of the car. Spy prototypes reveal a more upright and squared off look, similar to design elements seen on the latest Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Inster.
The windshield, roofline, and side windows feature a sharper profile than the current model. The roof also tapers towards the rear, giving the hatchback a more distinctive appearance.
Other visible design details include:
- Flared front wheel arches
- New side window design
- Revised roof profile
- Completely redesigned front and rear lighting
Most of the front end remains hidden under camouflage, but earlier prototypes have shown a large grille, a full width LED light bar, new headlights, and updated daytime running lights.
Rear Design Also Gets Major Changes
The rear section remains heavily covered, but parts of the taillights are visible and appear significantly different from those on the current Hyundai i20.
Interestingly, the test vehicle was also fitted with a tow bar. While few buyers are likely to use an i20 for towing duties, manufacturers routinely test towing capability during development.
Cabin Could Receive Hyundai's Latest Technology
Hyundai has not yet revealed the interior of the new i20.
However, there is speculation that the hatchback could adopt Hyundai’s latest cabin layout, including a larger infotainment system and the company’s new Pleos Connect software platform.
Whether Hyundai keeps the current model’s straightforward dashboard design or moves to a more screen focused setup remains unclear.
Hyundai i20 EV Could Join the Lineup
For the first time, the Hyundai i20 is expected to be offered with a fully electric powertrain.
Details remain limited, but reports suggest the electric version may not use the same E GMP platform found in Hyundai’s larger and more premium EVs. Instead, Hyundai could choose a more affordable architecture to keep costs under control.
Expected highlights include:
| Feature | Expected Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Fully electric option |
| Charging System | Around 400-volt architecture |
| Positioning | Affordable entry-level EV |
| Focus | Practicality and value |
The addition of an electric variant would help Hyundai strengthen its presence in the growing small EV segment.
Hyundai i20 N Expected To Go Hybrid
Performance fans will be paying close attention to the future of the Hyundai i20 N.
Current reports indicate that Hyundai plans to retain the familiar 1.6 litre turbocharged four cylinder engine. However, the hot hatch is expected to gain hybrid assistance through a small electric motor and battery pack.
The hybrid system should help improve performance while also reducing emissions.
Expected Hyundai i20 N Changes
- 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol engine remains
- Hybrid assistance added
- Higher efficiency
- Lower emissions
- Potential power increase
There is one downside for driving enthusiasts. The addition of hybrid technology could result in the removal of the six speed manual transmission.
If that happens, the next i20 N may offer more performance than before, but it could lose one of the features that made the current model especially popular among enthusiasts.
What To Expect
The next Hyundai i20 looks set to receive one of the biggest updates in the model’s history. A fresh design, modern technology, hybrid performance, and the introduction of an electric version should help keep the hatchback competitive for years to come.
More details are expected to emerge as Hyundai continues testing the new model ahead of its official debut.
Sources & References
- Hyundai USA Official Website
Official Hyundai website for the United States featuring vehicle specifications, pricing, technology, and future model information. - Hyundai USA Newsroom
Official Hyundai North America media and press release portal used for product announcements, launches, and company updates. - Hyundai N Official Website
Official source for Hyundai N performance models, motorsport activities, and high performance vehicle news. - Hyundai Global Official Website
Hyundai Motor Company’s global website covering worldwide product strategy, future mobility, and corporate announcements.
Additional Regional Sources
- Hyundai Canada Official Website
Official Hyundai Canada website with vehicle information, pricing, and regional specifications. - Hyundai Canada Newsroom
Official Canadian Hyundai media center covering product and corporate news. - Hyundai Australia Official Website
Official Hyundai Australia website featuring local models, offers, and market specific updates.
Next Generation Hyundai i20
What is new in the next generation Hyundai i20?
The next Hyundai i20 is expected to bring a fresh design, updated technology, new powertrain options, and for the first time, a fully electric version.
What design changes are expected on the new Hyundai i20?
Spy shots point to a more upright and squared off shape, a sharper roofline, flared front wheel arches, new side windows, and redesigned front and rear lighting.
Will the new Hyundai i20 get an electric version?
Yes. The i20 is expected to get a fully electric option for the first time, with reports suggesting a more affordable setup and around a 400 volt system.
What is expected for the Hyundai i20 N?
The i20 N is expected to keep the 1.6 litre turbocharged four cylinder engine, but it may gain hybrid support from a small electric motor and battery pack.
Will the six speed manual stay on the i20 N?
That is not confirmed. Hybrid hardware could lead to the six speed manual being dropped, which would make the car faster in some areas but less fun for enthusiasts.
When will Hyundai reveal the new i20?
Hyundai has not announced the reveal date yet. The model is still under testing, so more details should come out before the official debut.
