Hyundai i20 Facelift 2023: Enhanced Safety and Technology

The Hyundai i20 hatchback has undergone an update, featuring a subtle redesign, upgraded interior technology, and enhanced safety equipment. With the launch scheduled for later this year, Hyundai has released pricing and specification details for the refreshed model. Priced from £20,770 in the UK, the updated Hyundai i20 aims to boost sales and compete with rivals like the Ford Fiesta.

Three specification levels will be available: Advance, Premium, and Ultimate. The Advance trim comes well-equipped with features such as 6-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, smartphone mirroring, and a leather steering wheel. In terms of safety, entry-level models include cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, speed warning, lane assist, and high beam assist.

Moving up to the Premium trim, priced from £22,570, buyers will enjoy larger 17-inch wheels, electric mirrors, privacy glass, automatic wipers, ambient lighting, climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Additionally, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen is included as standard.

For those seeking the highest level of luxury and technology, the Ultimate trim starts at £24,070. It adds keyless entry, start-stop engine functionality, a wireless charging pad, and an eight-speaker Bose sound system. Drivers will also benefit from blind-spot collision warning and forward collision assist systems.

Hyundai has streamlined the i20’s engine lineup for the facelifted model. All variants now come with a three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 98bhp. The more powerful engine option, which previously offered up to 118bhp, is no longer available. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Fuel economy figures for the i20 have yet to be confirmed by Hyundai.

While the Hyundai i20 was the Korean manufacturer’s third best-selling car between 2021 and 2022, sales dropped by 5% last year. Although it remains uncertain if the hot Hyundai i20 N will make a return, a Hyundai spokesperson hinted at its potential comeback in the future.

Visually, the regular i20 has received a redesigned front and rear bumper, new 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels, and new Z-shaped LED lights at the front and rear. The low roof profile and long wheelbase have been retained to maintain aerodynamics and a sporty stance.

The facelifted i20 also introduces three new paint color options: Lucid Lime Metallic, Lumen Grey Pearl, and Meta Blue Pearl. These colors add a touch of vibrancy and personalization to the exterior.

Inside the cabin, the i20 now comes with more standard equipment. It features a 4.1-inch LCD instrument display, over-the-air map updates, USB-C ports, and 4G data connectivity. Optional equipment remains unchanged and includes a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and GPS tracking.

To celebrate the arrival of the new lime paint color, Hyundai has introduced an optional Lucid Lime interior package. This package includes redesigned seat fabrics and lime-colored stitching, adding a unique and refreshing touch to the interior.

Overall, the facelifted Hyundai i20 offers an array of enhancements in terms of safety, technology, and design. With its competitive pricing and improved features, Hyundai aims to attract buyers looking for a stylish and well-equipped supermini. The i20’s arrival in the third quarter of this year is highly anticipated, and it is expected to make a significant impact in the market.