Hyundai i20 facelift spied testing: design changes, engine options

A mid-life facelift for the Hyundai i20 is in the works as a camouflaged test mule of the updated model has been spied testing abroad. The current-gen i20 made its global debut in early 2020, which means it is just about time for a mid-life update.

• i20 facelift expected to get exterior and interior cosmetic updates
• Will be offered in petrol-only avatar in India

Hyundai i20 facelift: what do the spy shots reveal?

Although the test mule was wrapped in heavy camouflage, it still offers us a sneak peek into a few details of the updated i20. What’s prominently visible is that the i20 facelift will get a slightly tweaked front grille. There could be updates to other soft parts as well, such as the front bumper and headlights.  

In profile, the facelifted i20 does not seem to carry any major change, although there could be a new set of alloy wheels (wheel covers for lower variants). The test mule was seen wearing plastic wheel covers, suggesting this was a base variant. The spy pictures, however, do not reveal anything about the rear of the facelifted i20. One can, however, expect tweaks to the bumper design and the tail lights – perhaps even an LED light bar as seen in facelifted Venue.

We also haven’t yet had a look at the interior of the new i20. There could be updates in the form of new upholstery and colour options along with new graphics for the infotainment and digital instrument cluster. And while the i20 is already generously equipped, it could benefit from an updated infotainment software, more USB ports and additional connected car features.

All the updates can also be expected to make it to the sportier N Line variant, along with its N Line-specific changes.

Hyundai i20 facelift: powertrain options 

As we have reported before, Hyundai will pull the plug on the 1.5-litre diesel engine on the i20 when the stricter RDE emission norms kick in from April 2023. This means, the facelifted i20, when it launches in India, will be offered in a petrol-only guise.

Therefore, the i20 facelift will be offered with the 120hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and the 83hp, 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine. Gearbox options will likely be carried forward unchanged from the current model.

Hyundai i20 facelift: launch timeline and rivals

Hyundai has just started testing the i20 facelift which means its global debut can be expected sometime around mid-2023. It will then arrive in India only by late 2023 or early 2024. Upon arrival, the i20 will continue its rivalry with the likes of the Maruti Baleno, Tata Altroz and Toyota Glanza.

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