Hyundai planning i20 and new i-blue concept for Paris Motor Show

Hyundai has taken the wraps off the latest addition to its stylish i-range of compact cars, the all-new i20 five-door hatchback, which is set to go on sale in global markets early next year. Designed at the carmaker’s European design center in Russelsheim, Germany, the hatch follows the design of the previous generation but has grown in size and offers improved dynamics.

The car has a longer wheelbase than the Getz, and is easily distinguished by its chrome-topped grille and stacked rear light clusters. The i20 is set to make its world debut at next month's Paris Motor Show.

Also on show will be a new 'i-blue' concept version of the i20. The Hyundai i-blue range combines existing technologies in innovative ways to show what can be done to make an existing model more environmentally friendly, and in the past has been applied to the i30 and i10 models. For the latest i20 i-blue, Hyundai has installed full-length under floor covers, reduced ground clearance by 15mm, changed the front and rear aerodynamics, and added low rolling resistance tires and high performance, low friction engine oil.

The i20 i-blue concept is fitted with a 1.4L CRDi diesel engine, which produces 90hp (67kW). To further improve economy, it drives through a six-speed manual gearbox instead of the car’s usual five-speed unit.

While the U.S. will likely miss out on the new i20, there was previous speculation that the even smaller i10 five-door hatchback could reach its shores. The biggest hurdle for Hyundai, and most other carmakers looking to import their global models, will be to bring the cars into line with tough U.S. safety regulations.