2010 Hyundai i20

The i20 will continue the new family look for Hyundai with ‘i’ generation bold chrome-topped front grille flanked by teardrop headlamps.

Although Australian specifications are still unconfirmed, going by European standards the new Hyundai promises to be extremely competitive.

In Europe three petrol engines are offered, starting as small as a 1.2-litre. The big news however will be the diesel variants which we believe Hyundai will push strongly in Australia.

European markets have a choice of four diesel engines, two of which are 1.4-litre in size and offer from 55kW; and 220 Nm of torque to 66 kW and 220 Nm.

A 1.6-litre unit is also available that puts out 85 kW and 260 Nm or 94 kW and 260 Nm (top of the range).

According to the manufacturer's official figures the 85kW diesel variant has a combined fuel cycle of 4.3L/100km and puts out just 115g/km of CO2.

We suspect the uptake of diesel i20s in Australia may be limited due to manual only availability. Petrol variants however will be available with four-speed automatics.

The top of the range i20 in Australia should get 16” alloys, front fog lamps, native iPod, USB and AUX connectivity, steering wheel mounted audio controls, leather steering wheel and gear shift, 6 airbags and ESP Stability Control. The model has already received Europe's highest safety rating.

The Hyundai i20 was designed by the Korean company's European design studio in Russelsheim, Germany but is built for the global market in India.

Hyundai intends to put the i20 against the Mazda2, Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz and the like.