The next generation 2015 Hyundai i20 was spotted testing in the outskirts of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, by Indian Autos Blog reader, Mr. Joseph Anthraper.
Mr. Joseph says that the prototype was repeatedly put on test on a particular stretch of road, and was benchmarked with the VW Polo and Maruti Swift.
Based on a new platform and codenamed 'IB', the 2015 i20 will build on the current model's strengths of offering a roomy interior and plenty of features. The current i20, though being a good all-rounder, suffers from poor driving dynamics. This would be addressed on the successor given that Hyundai is simultaneously testing the car at the Nürburgring track in Germany.
The Korean carmaker is very confident on the new i20 being a success, so much that a performance-oriented 'GT' version is also under development. The i20 GT will perhaps be the first offering from Hyundai's new 'N' range of performance-oriented cars.
The new i20 is likely to be revealed at the Paris Motor Show which takes place in October this year. India should get the new i20 soon after its international debut, sporting the same powertrains, given that the premium hatchback segment is extremely competitive. This year, this segment will see the addition of the new Honda Jazz and Tata Bolt, while cars such as the Polo and Swift are set to receive facelifts.
