Accent

Make
Hyundai
Segment
Sedan

After teasing the upcoming i30 facelift, Hyundai has lifted the wraps off the new i20 hatchback ahead of its debut at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show. Sadly, the Hyundai i20 won't be coming to the US as the subcompact hatchback has never been sold over here, but it does give us an idea what to expect from the next-generation Hyundai Accent and Kona.

The new i20 is the first model to adopt Hyundai's 'Sensuous Sportiness' in Europe, which was also applied to the redesigned 2020 Hyundai Sonata. Compared to its predecessor, the new i20's roof has been lowered by 0.9 inches, while the body is 1.18 inches wider and the wheelbase has increased by 0.3 inches. The Hyundai hatch sits on newly-designed 17-inch alloy wheels. Elsewhere, Hyundai has fitted new front and rear bumpers, a wider grille, sharp design lines, and a full-width light bar connecting the redesigned taillights. These changes make the new Hyundai i20 look more premium than its predecessor. A small, quarter-fixed glass window behind the rear door also improves visibility.

Inside, the interior is more technically advanced, incorporating a new 10.25-inch digital cluster, 10.25-inch center touchscreen, and wireless phone charging, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now offered wirelessly. A premium Bose audio system is also available with eight speakers including a subwoofer. Thanks to the new i20's extended wheelbase, space for rear passengers has increased and trunk space has increased by 0.9 cu.ft, offering 12.4 cu.ft of luggage space.

As for engine options, the new Hyundai i20 offers a choice of two engines and three transmissions. Topping the range is a 1.0-liter turbo engine available with 98 hp or 118 hp. For the first time, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system can be applied to this engine, which is optional for the 98-hp version and standard with the 118-hp version.

This 48-volt system is available with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission or a new developed six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission, which decouples the engine from the transmission after the driver releases the accelerator to save fuel. Without the 48-volt mild hybrid system, the 1.0-liter turbo is available with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission or a manual six-speed gearbox. An entry-level 1.2-liter four-cylinder model is also available with 82 hp and a five-speed manual transmission.

In terms of safety tech, the new Hyundai i20 is equipped with the Hyundai SmartSense safety package safety functions while available safety systems include an intelligent speed limit assist, lane following assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist warning and an upgraded forward collision-avoidance assist that can now also detect pedestrians and cyclists.