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New-look i20 spotted under heavy camouflage
Hyundai's subcompact hatchback is preparing for a visible change. Spy photos show the 2027 i20 wearing thick camouflage, but its new proportions and signature touches are already clear: the outgoing third-generation hatch evolves toward the manufacturer's 'Art of Steel' design language, trading busy surfacing for simpler, more solid shapes.
The revision feels sharper yet more substantial than the current i20. The front face appears to ditch the traditional grille for a thin, wide signature element above a separate lower intake, echoing styling cues introduced on the second-generation Nexo. Expect bolder wheel arches and more eye-catching alloy wheel designs to give the supermini a stronger road presence.
Exterior changes that stand out
- Upward-sweeping window line toward the C-pillar, creating a sportier silhouette
- Rear quarter windows seemingly removed in favor of chunkier C-pillars
- Reworked rear light graphics and a tidier rear profile
- Small visible exhaust muffler suggests modest petrol engines will remain
Those chunky C-pillars and revised rear lights help the i20 look more grown-up in a segment where perceived quality matters. The small exhaust detail indicates Hyundai isn't moving to a full electric lineup for the standard models — combustion engines will remain part of the mix, at least for now.
Cabin: cleaner layout and a single glass band
Inside, the 2027 i20 is expected to adopt a simplified dashboard and fresher trim materials. Most notable is the panorama-glass housing stretching across the top of the dash, visually merging the digital instrument cluster and central infotainment into one continuous display. This design approach aligns with Hyundai's recent models and improves the perceived tech level of the cabin.
The four-spoke steering wheel will likely be replaced by a more compact three-spoke unit, and sources suggest Hyundai could fit its Pleos Connect infotainment as an alternative to the current connected navigation system, offering better smartphone integration and over-the-air updates.
Powertrains and market positioning
Hyundai plans a multi-powertrain strategy for the next-generation i20. Expect a core lineup built around the 1.0 T-GDi engine, likely offered with a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup in many European markets. A self-charging hybrid is also probable, driven in part by forthcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations.
There are also whispers that the performance-minded i20 N will return with electric assistance, blending combustion power with e-boosting for sharper responses. Meanwhile, the naturally aspirated 1.2 MPi — still sold in emerging markets — may be phased out in Europe to meet tightening emissions and efficiency targets.
Key towing and engine notes:
- Current 1.0 T-GDi manual i20 tows up to 1,110 kg (2,447 lb)
- Dual-clutch DCT limits towing to about 1,000 kg (2,205 lb)
- Small visible muffler on the spy car hints at modest-displacement petrol mills continuing in the range
How it stacks up against rivals
The i20 sits in a competitive supermini segment that values packaging, technology and driving dynamics. Hyundai's styling evolution and updated interior tech should help it remain relevant against the Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris. If Hyundai succeeds in combining stronger design language with mild-hybrid efficiency and a refreshed infotainment suite, the 2027 i20 could punch above its weight.
'The redesigned i20 looks like a small car that wants to feel like a larger one,' says one industry observer, 'and that perception will be key in Europe.'
With European launch slated for 2027, expect Hyundai to reveal full technical specs, trims and pricing closer to debut. For fans of the brand and buyers in the market for a capable hatchback, the new i20 will be worth a close look when official details arrive.
Source: autoevolution
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