Hyundai Elite i20 automatic launched

Hyundai India has quietly slipped in an automatic variant of the Elite i20 with a new petrol engine. Priced at Rs 9.01 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), it is available in only Magna trim for now.

Powered by an all-new 1368cc engine, the i20 makes 99bhp of power and 132Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a four-speed torque convertor gearbox. Hyundai already has a 1396cc petrol engine in the Verna but the company has preferred this more modern unit for the Elite i20. This engine was originally built for export versions of the i20 but with the surge in demand for petrols and automatics in cities across India, this engine could find its takers.

Although both its rivals, Baleno and Jazz are available in two trims when it comes to the automatic variant, the i20 is at a disadvantage here, as it is available only in the Magna variant, which loses on several features. Primarily ABS, side airbags, reverse camera, front fog lamps, auto headlamps, projector headlamps, cornering lights, DRLs, alloy wheels, seat height adjustment, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, push button start, rear wiper etc. features are given a miss.

The i20 is priced higher than the basic variants of Baleno and Jazz by over Rs 1.5 lakh as it does not qualify for the 1.2-litre subsidy anymore. The i20 petrol then borders to the hot hatchback segment with its extra power and will be pitted against a Polo GT TSI. The TSI is priced at Rs 9.05 lakh, but gets a lot more features than the Elite i20. Hyundai needs to offer a better equipped variant of this automatic to attract customers.