The all-new 2014 Hyundai i10 has been caught testing in camouflage — and early spy shots reveal an evolution in design that promises more quality equipment and interior space than ever before.
Hyundai is already hard at work on the all-new generation of its popular city car, the i10, and prototype vehicles wrapped in disguise have been spotted on European roads. Although the heavy wrap makes it difficult to pick out specific styling details, we can see a clear evolution of design under the covers — a sportier lower bumper, cleaner side profile, and indicators repositioned to the base of the mirrors.
The brand new i10 is expected to make its full public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, with European deliveries beginning in early 2014. The model will be produced at Hyundai’s rapidly expanding Turkey plant (HAOS) in Îzmit, alongside the i20, as part of the company’s major investment to double capacity to 200,000 units per year.
More Quality Equipment & Space Expected
Hyundai has confirmed that the next-generation i10 will deliver B-segment value in an A-segment package. Generous levels of equipment, space and functionality — typically only found in vehicles from higher segments — are set to define the new model.
Buyers can expect features such as automatic climate control, a heated leather steering wheel, and cruise control with speed limiter as available options — appointments more commonly found in compact family cars. Safety equipment will also be upgraded, with stability control and front curtain airbags expected as standard.
Design & Platform
Thomas Bürkle, who was responsible for the previous i10’s look, is understood to have led the design on this new generation as well. This time, however, the team dared to go further — feline-like headlights with a bold new interpretation of Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design language are expected, along with a more upmarket interior featuring contrasting colour trim and improved material quality throughout.
The boot is set to grow to around 252 litres — one of the best figures in the city car segment — while head and legroom for rear passengers will be substantially improved compared with the outgoing model. Engine choices will include a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol unit.
Production & Launch
Production of the new i10 at the HAOS plant in Turkey has been moved forward to the end of September 2013 for European and Turkish markets, with global rollout to follow shortly thereafter. The cars will be exported to more than 30 countries, mainly in Europe, with expected annual delivery of more than 160,000 units in 2014 and approximately 180,000 units by 2015.
Stay tuned to ReviewHyundai.com for full details as the official reveal approaches.