New Hyundai i20 Ready For Electrified Powertrains – Mild and Strong Hybrids

It is likely that the new i20 will be getting a 48V mild hybrid (MHEV) setup, as currently used with the Kia Stonic

Hyundai recently launched the all-new 4th-gen i20 in Brazil with comprehensive updates. The updated model runs on the K3 platform, which supports advanced tech features and varied powertrain systems. While the new i20 for Brazil currently has a duo of 1.0-litre Flex petrol engines, the hatch could get a 48V mild and strong hybrid (HEV) systems in the future. The type of electrification for i20 will vary based on the market.

New i20 mild-hybrid variant – What to expect?

In Hyundai’s Brazil portfolio, the new i20 is slotted between the HB20 and Creta. Powertrain options include a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated 3-cylinder flex petrol engine. It generates 75 hp / 94 Nm when running on petrol and 80 hp / 100 Nm when using flex fuel (E30 or higher ethanol blend). This engine is offered with only a 5-speed manual transmission.

Higher-spec variants of the new i20 in Brazil utilize a turbo flex, 3-cylinder petrol engine that generates 115 hp and 172 Nm of torque (petrol or ethanol). It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. With increased focus on electrification, the new i20 in Brazil is expected to get a 48V mild hybrid setup with the 1.0-litre turbo flex engine.

A similar mild-hybrid setup is already in use with the Kia Stonic in Brazil. It is integrated with a 1.0-litre Kappa Turbo GDI (T-GDI) 3-cylinder petrol engine. This powertrain generates 120 hp and 200 Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission and power is sent to the front wheels.

Stonic has drive modes of Eco, Normal and Sport. It has innovative features such as sailing mode, where the engine shuts off during coasting for enhanced fuel efficiency. There is a good probability of new i20 receiving strong hybrid powertrains (HEV) too for highest possible fuel efficiency and versatility.

Enhanced versatility with K3 platform

Hyundai and Kia are upgrading several of their cars to the new K3 platform. Along with enabling advanced features and new powertrains, the K3 platform also future-proofs these cars through OTA updates. With the new i20, the K3 platform has helped improve overall refinement, crash protection and structural rigidity.

While safety has been enhanced with a higher percentage of high-strength steel, the K3 platform also focuses on enhancing ride comfort and reducing NVH levels. It also supports HEV setups, as expected with the upcoming new-gen Creta. Running on the K3 platform, the new i20 in Brazil offers a comprehensive range of premium features.

One of the key highlights is dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment and instrument cluster. Hyundai’s larger models based on the K3 platform such as the Creta are expected to get the Pleos infotainment and connectivity system. In the case of the new i20, other updates include an advanced multimedia system with embedded connectivity via a 5G chip.

A first for a Hyundai model in Brazil is OTA updates introduced with the new i20. Steering wheel is new, featuring the elegant quad dot logo. It gets paddle shifters and mounted controls. New i20 has Bluelink connectivity suite, electronic parking brake, wireless phone charger and physical buttons for the air conditioning. Hyundai has also introduced a comprehensive suite of ADAS features with the new i20, enhancing passenger safety.