Spy shots reveal Hyundai’s next-generation i20 with new styling, upgraded tech, and a 2027 market debut
Update: Fresh spy shots from Spain reveal a next-gen Hyundai i20 prototype with less camouflage on its nose. The subcompact hatchback now shows off full-width DRLs that bring to mind the XPeng P7 sedan from China, framing a boxy honeycomb grille.
The sharp angle at the top of the A-pillar even gives off subtle Cybertruck vibes, echoing the angular design language Hyundai debuted with the Santa Fe SUV. Other visible changes include crossover-style flared wheel arches, redesigned mirror caps, and new LED taillights. Original story continues below.
Hyundai is showing no signs of leaving the small hatchback segment behind, and the i20 is lined up for another generation. Our spy photographers caught the first prototype undergoing hot-weather testing in Europe, confirming it will continue with combustion power.
More: Hyundai’s Next Sedan Is Splitting Opinions Before Its Debut
Fresh images from Spain suggest this next i20 will be a full redesign, unlike the larger i30 which is sticking to its third facelift. This clean-sheet approach gives Hyundai’s designers room to apply the brand’s latest styling language, resulting in a boxier stance than the outgoing model.
More Distinct Styling
At the front, a new pair of LED headlights sit a bit lower in the fascia, flanking a downsized grille. Along the sides, the current car’s busy character lines have been swapped for smoother surfaces, while flatter pillars and a rising beltline add a subtle crossover flavor.
The rear end is covered in heavy camouflage but we can see hints of redesigned taillights and a provisional exhaust pipe sticking out of the bumper. This is proof that the model won’t go electric, although there are rumors about a zero-emission sibling with similar design based on a different platform.
Cabin Overhaul On The Way
Big changes are also expected inside the cabin, with an overhauled design for the dashboard, a more modern digital cockpit, and new materials borrowed from Hyundai’s EV lineup.
While details on the underpinnings remain scarce, the car is likely to ride on an updated version of the current platform. Powertrains will continue to include mild-hybrid technology, though tougher Euro 7 emissions standards could push Hyundai to expand electrification further.
More: Hyundai Is Giving Its N Cars A Big Powertrain Shakeup And One Loses A Manual
As for the i20 N hot hatch with the turbo 1.6-liter engine, it was dropped from the European lineup last year due to emissions. A comeback is expected in the new generation albeit with a hybrid powertrain. As a result, the entry-level N will drop the option of a manual gearbox, although it will most likely have more power compared to its predecessor.
Market Launch And Rivals
The current i20 was introduced in 2020 and received a mild facelift in 2023. The next generation is expected to appear in mid 2026, with a market launch more likely for 2027.
Rivals of the next Hyundai i20 will include the Renault Clio that has just entered a new generation. It will also compete with the Citroen C3, Peugeot 208, Opel Corsa, and Lancia Ypsilon supermini model from Stellantis, the VW Polo, Skoda Fabia, and Seat Ibiza triplets from VW Group, the MG 3 from China and the Toyota Yaris from Japan.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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