Updated Hyundai Elite i20 spotted testing

An updated version of the Hyundai Elite i20 has been spotted testing in India. This is expected to be a major update for the South Korean automaker’s premium hatchback and is likely to debut sometime in 2018. 

The pictures show us that the updates for the hatchback will come in the form of a new face, tail lamps and design for the alloy wheels. While the current model has a split grille, this update is expected to bring the ‘cascade’ style grille to the Elite i20.  These changes are along the lines of what we saw on the Grand i10 and Xcent facelifts. Given that the cabin was just updated recently, we expect no changes here in terms of elements or layout. 

Sources suggest that this updated car will get a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 120bhp/172Nm. This three-pot motor in this state of tune is available with a six-speed manual gearbox. There had been plans for a mild hybrid system but with changes in the FAME policy it remains to be seen what steps the company will take in this direction. 

When launched, this car will compete with the likes of the Honda Jazz, Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Fiat Punto Abarth and the Volkswagen Polo in the premium B-segment of the Indian car market. 

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