IAB Picks - 5 things you should know about the Hyundai Elite i20

The Hyundai Elite i20 has hogged the spotlight within days after the first images revealing the hatchback were posted on the internet. Here are 5 things you have to know about one of the most anticipated launches this month -

1. Pre-bookings underway, launch on August 11

Dealers of Hyundai India started accepting bookings for the new i20 on August 1, ahead of its August 11 launch.

The booking amount, we are told by one dealer in South India, is INR 10,000. The concept of pre-launch bookings seems to be a nice way for manufacturers to not only build up some enthusiasm about the product, but to also boast about the thousands of units that are already blocked by customers even without a test drive or a display car as such, at the press conferences.

2. Designed in Germany

The Elite i20 was designed by Hyundai's European design center which is located in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

Based on the company's latest iteration of the Fluidic Design (v2.0), the new i20, based on spy images, looks a lot more purposeful than the outgoing model. A long bonnet, sculpted sides and blackened out C-Pillars are some of the design trademarks of the car.

3. Engine options unchanged

Engines powering the Elite i20 will continue largely unchanged from the outgoing model.

Starting the range will be the 1.2-liter four-cylinder Kappa motor making 82.8 bhp and 116 Nm of torque (in the current model) matched to a 5-speed manual transmission. However, the volume seller of the range will be the 1.4-liter CRDI producing 88.7 bhp and 224 Nm of torque available with a 6-speed manual. Minor improvements with respect to efficiency and power could be seen on these engines.

Hyundai will not introduce an automatic transmission or a 1.4-liter petrol engine, at least during the launch.

4. Feature rich interior

Just like the outgoing model, the new i20 will be loaded to the brim with features, which are generally seen only in cars a segment above.

The top-end model will have ABS, EBD, 2 airbags, multifunction steering, electrically adjustable and folding wing mirrors, an integrated music system capable of Bluetooth, AUX-in, USB, automatic climate control, engine starter button with keyless entry, and reverse camera with parking sensors on an electrochromatic mirror.

Sadly, Hyundai will not offer a sunroof or six airbags on any variant.

5. Shorter length but longer wheelbase

Reports say that the new i20 will measure 10 mm less than the outgoing model (bumper-to-bumper).

However, the wheelbase of the car will increase by 45 mm for better comfort at the back. Also, the width is likely to increase by 24 mm for added shoulder room. The height will remain the same, but the ground clearance is improved by 4 mm.