Hyundai’s New i20 Looks Ready For America’s Small Crossover Obsession

Key Points

• Next-generation Hyundai i20 debuts in Brazil, adopting a compact crossover-inspired design.
• Features upgraded premium cabin, advanced infotainment, and over-the-air update capability.
• European versions will feature bespoke design details powertrain choices.

Hyundai has officially revealed the next-generation i20 in Brazil, confirming many of the details that appeared in leaked images just days before its debut. While it remains a hatchback on paper, the redesigned i20 looks far more like a compact crossover than the city car buyers have known for years. The new i20 will come in five different trim levels and carry a starting price of R$99,990 ($19,750).

From Hatchback To Crossover

The new i20 takes styling cues from several of Hyundai’s latest models, borrowing cues from the Kona and Elantra. Up front and at the back, a full-width light bar stretches across the bumpers, helping give the new i20 a more futuristic appearance. The new i20 also gets 17-inch diamond-cut wheels, black body cladding, and a more upright stance, giving the car a much tougher look than its predecessor. Although it still rides on a 101.6-inch (2,580 mm) wheelbase, the new model is larger overall, measuring 162.6 inches (4,130 mm) long and 59.3 inches (1,505 mm) tall.

A More Premium Cabin

The cabin represents one of the biggest leaps forward over the outgoing model, adopting a cleaner layout inspired by Hyundai’s latest electric vehicles, including the Ioniq 5. This includes the new four-dotted logo on the steering wheel, two-tone synthetic leather upholstery, and a gargantuan screen. Hyundai has modernized the cabin with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital dash, which form a single curved panel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, while Hyundai has retained physical controls for key functions, something many drivers will appreciate. The i20 also gains connected services and over-the-air update capability, a first for a Brazilian-built car.