Refreshed Hyundai i20 axes diesel
Hyundai has updated its i20 supermini with new safety tech and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission as it also axes diesel from the line-up.
First launched in 2008 followed by the current, second-generation in 2014, the range – which comprises three and five-door models – now jettisons the 1.4-litre diesel previously available, reducing the line-up to four petrol engines: 99bhp and 118bhp 1.0-litre T-GDI three-cylinder turbo unit as well as 74bhp or 84bhp versions of the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated unit. The move comes as a number of carmakers ditch diesels from their line-ups.
Marking a first for the range, the facelifted model can now be specified with the seven-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) on the 99bhp 1.0-litre engine and also offers Idle Stop and Go as standard across the range.
Other changes bring refreshed design features for the five-door model and the addition of various optional safety equipment including Hyundai SmartSense active safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning system, driver attention warning and high beam Assist.
The i20 also gains new connectivity features, including a seven-inch Display Audio as standard on S and SE trim and a seven-inch infotainment system (available on Premium Nav and Premium SE Nav) featuring integrated navigation and supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as Live Services.
“The i20 is one of our DNA models and has continuously been one of our top-selling cars in Europe for a decade. The i-range is the strong foundation of our brand’s success in Europe”, said Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, vice president marketing & product of Hyundai Motor Europe. “By updating the New i20 in design, safety, connectivity and powertrain line-up, we are continuing to meet the expectations of our customers to ensure the ongoing success of this model range.”
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