Hyundai i10 1.2L VTVT spied in Pune

Thanks to Indian Cars and Bikes, we are able to bring you exclusive spy pictures of Hyundai i10 facelift spied testing in Pune. Hyundai’s i10 completes three years this October and it was about time we saw a cosmetic facelift. One interesting aspect on the spied car is the presence of VTVT (which in Hyundai’s language means Variable timing Valvetrain) badge on the fender. The i10 currently comes with a choice of two engines – A 1.1L iRDE and 1.2L Kappa. At this point, we are not sure if it is the Kappa that will receive Variable Valve timing or an all new engine. The 1.1L iRDE is old enough to be phased out and the grapevine has it that the 1.1L engine could be replaced by an all new 1.0L. Nothing is confirmed at the moment though.

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Hit the jump for a thorough analysis and more images.

Lets quickly assess the changes on the mule. There are complete changes to the front and the rear end – The headlamps, bumper and fog lamps are new. To keep Hyundai’ mass seller fresh, we see that the new headlamps are now swept back harking at the ones on the Beat and possibly resulting in modifications to the hood as well. Look closely into the headlamps and then look at the ones on the Audi A1 and A5. The internal elements look similar. The rear end also gets a complete makeover and the facelifted Hyundai is expected to borrow the ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ styling cues from its bigger brothers, the Sonata and Elantra. Also new are the wheel caps and turn signals integrated into outer rear view mirrors. Also notice the resurgence of adjustable head rests for front seats ditching the integrated ones. Customer Feedback has worked.

The facelifted i10 comes at a time when competition intensifies due to the arrival of Nissan Micra, Ford Figo and the upcoming Toyota Etios. Implementing VTVT technology may also help Hyundai reclaim the ‘India’s most fuel efficient hatchback above 800cc’ tag that it lost to the Alto K10 couple of weeks ago.

The new i10 is expected by Diwali and be prepared to shell out few thousands more for the new model. Till then, stay tuned to Wheelosphere for more updates.

[Indian Cars and Bikes]