Hyundai i20 Active debuts at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show
Hyundai has unveiled the i20 Active, a crossover-styled variant of its supermini, at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, targeting the European market with raised ride height and rugged looks.
Hyundai introduced the i20 Active at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, expanding its European range with a crossover-inspired version of the i20 supermini. The i20 Active adopts higher ground clearance, body cladding and SUV design elements in a bid to attract buyers looking for a more rugged alternative to the standard hatchback.
Crossover styling and practical upgrades
The i20 Active sits above the regular i20 hatchback, visually distinguished by new bumpers, front and rear skid plates, plastic body cladding and roof rails. Hyundai has increased the ride height to give the car a more purposeful stance, though the underpinnings remain front-wheel drive only. The visual changes bring the i20 Active in line with Hyundai’s larger SUVs, the Tucson and Santa Fe, but in a smaller, urban-friendly package.
Buyers will not find an all-wheel drive option, as Hyundai has kept the drivetrain simple to focus on efficiency and cost. The raised suspension and exterior protection are aimed at those who want the look and practicality of a crossover without the complexity or weight of four-wheel drive.
Engine options and availability
Under the bonnet, the i20 Active launches with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, available in two states of tune: 100PS (74kW) or 120PS (88kW). Hyundai confirmed at Frankfurt that this engine will also become available in the regular i20 five-door and three-door models. The i20 Active is set for a European market launch in 2016, though Hyundai did not announce pricing at the show.
Hyundai’s expanding crossover line-up
The i20 Active joins Hyundai’s growing range of SUV-inspired models, offering a more affordable entry point beneath the Tucson and Santa Fe. Its introduction at Frankfurt reflects the continued demand for crossover styling in the European B-segment. For more on the key launches from Frankfurt 2015, see 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show: Supercars, SUVs and Electric Concepts Lead the Line-up.
