Hyundai Elite i20 2018: Safer and Powerful Euro-spec Model unveiled

Hyundai recently unveiled the Euro-spec model of the second-gen i20 facelift. Known as the Elite i20 in India, the Europe version will boast of an all-new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission system coupled to 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. The Indian-spec 1.2-litre petrol model will soon be equipped with CVT. Reportedly, the Elite i20 made its debut at the 2018 Indian Auto Expo. In addition to above, there are other discernible cosmetics as well as mechanical changes.

Hyundai will offer a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for its Euro-spec model, the second gen i20 facelift. Under the hood, the i20 facelift will be powered by a 1.0-litre T-GDi turbocharged petrol engine. Hyundai will provide two power variants of the turbocharged petrol engine. One tuned to deliver 100PS of maximum power with maximum torque of 172 Nm and the other variant capable of churning out 120PS maximum power with same torque. Further, the European car lovers can further choose from a 5-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT for the 100PS.

The 120PS version is only offered with a 6-speed manual. With Europe tightening its emission norms, Hyundai discontinued the 1.4-liter diesel variant from the i20’s powertrain options amidst falling sales in 2017.

In India, unlike Europe, the Japanese automaker will introduce a CVT powered Elite i20 that would lock horns with the Baleno and the Jazz that are equipped with CVT powered petrol engines. The dual-clutch auto transmission, for the time being, is going to be part of only the Euro-Spec models of the i20.

Both the cars share similarities in design and look. However, like previous times, the euro-spec will boast of new LED elements in its refreshed tail lamps. The previous version of the facelift i20 also had LED tail lamps for European customers. Indian customers it seems will not get the option any time sooner.

Last but the not the least, the Euro-spec scores high when it comes to smart features for safety and comfort. The Euro-spec is equipped with active driver assistance, lane departure warning and the lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, driver attention alert and high-beam assist.

Budget-driven Indian car lovers will have to wait for some time before their Elite i20 comes laden with such modern-day smart features. For the time being though, it would be interesting to see how the new offering for the European market fares among growing popularity of electric vehicles in Europe.