Hyundai Reveals Flashy New i20 Hatchback

First Impressions? Here’s What The 2027 Hyundai Hatchback Looks Like

Hyundai’s hatchback segment has gone through multiple changes over the years, from new facelift to debatable Global NCAP ratings earlier this year. It all comes with the territory, the good, the bad, the whoopsies, and the market. However, Hyundai’s fourth-generation i20 has finally been revealed to the world (the Brazilian market) and it’s giving the old hatchback style a brand-new “electric” look.  

South Africans love their hatchbacks, so it would come as no surprise who would be first to the showroom if and when the model arrives shows up on our shores. 

Design and Interior 

The latest model on show has taken elements from cross-over inspired designs that encompass the traditional hatchback and small SUV with a few new modern touch-ups to the interior. While hatchbacks are usually on the smaller side, this specific model (built in Hyundai’s Türkiye production plant) offers buyers slightly more length (around 135 mm longer) compared to its Indian-built third-generation predecessor sold across South Africa. 

Hyundai’s Brazilian division highlighted a number of notable features from the interior (which may only be relevant to the South American market):

• 346-litre cargo compartment that expands up to a decent 1152-litres with the rear seats folded back. Back-seat spacing that includes legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, is one of its stronger points, according to the firm.   
• The i20 hatchback came with a decent makeover, incorporating a three-spoke steering wheel, a two-tone black-and-white “aesthetic”, and new centre console. 
• It comes equipped with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. Vertical vents, 6-speaker sound system, reverse camera, and a few ADAS features (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). 

Car Specs: Drive and Performance

Available to the Brazilian market includes a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine (naturally aspirated and turbocharged). Some suspect that the model from India’s i20 range will be pretty similar in build and performance and will most likely be directed to SA.
 
Buyers can expect the base model to produce 55 kW (similar to that of the i10 engine) and can also look at the higher trim 1.0 Turbocharged N Line – delivering a modest 86 kW and 172 Nm of torque.  
Transmission type and gearbox include a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. 

Average fuel consumption is that similar to the current variants ranging around 5.9 litres/100 km 

The Hyundai i20 makes for a great first-time vehicle when you consider pricing and value for money. Currently, South Africa’s Hyundai i20 range offers buyers 1.2-litre to 1.4-litre petrol engines and 1.0-litre turbo 7-speed DCT options as seen by pricing below: 

• i20 1.2 Executive MT retails from R329,900 
• i20 1.4 Premium AT retails from R329,900
• i20 1.4 Executive AT retails from R349,900 
• i20 1.2 Premium MT retails from R309,900
• i20 1.0 T N Line retails from R467,500

Service Plan and Car Warranty

Hyundai exclusively offers a 7-year/200,000km manufacturer warranty with new purchases.

However, if you are in the market to purchase a pre-owned Hyundai and need a motor plan, you can look at renewing or shopping for a new extended car Service Plan or Extended Car Warranty through MotorHappy.  Almost all car brands are covered, and exclusive benefits don’t just stop at roadside assistance. 

Quotes are easy, get yours online: MotorHappy Quotes

The new Hyundai model will most likely pick up new fans once production is underway. Zweli Mnisi, General Manager in Corporate Communications of Hyundai South Africa stated that the new i20 will start production in Türkiye during 2027, as well as the viability study for the local car market. 

South Africa’s car market is a  tough market to break considering the SUV and bakkie segments taking the lead in sales. However, that doesn’t mean it’s over for the little guys.