Hyundai HB20 Spy Shots: Subcompact Hatch Refreshed

Hyundai HB20 Spy Shots: Subcompact Hatch RefreshedThe car is sold by Hyundai in Brazil.

The subcompact Hyundai HB20 looks very attractive, especially with gas prices still high. The HB20 isn’t very popular in America so the automakers have stopped selling it here. Models such as the Ford Fiesta and Toyota Yaris are now available . Brazilian customers have options such as the HB20. This model will soon get a mid-cycle update with new spy shots taken during cold-weather testing.

Hyundai covers the small hatch completely. The majority of the vehicle is covered in black, while the exterior of the vehicle is protected by camouflage wrap. It is difficult to see the changes in styling, but Hyundai may be giving the hatch a revised front and rear fascias as well as a wider grille and new headlights. It appears that the car is taking design inspiration from the Hyundai I20. Rear LED taillights will be updated.

Hyundai HB20 Spy Shots: Subcompact Hatch Refreshed
Hyundai HB20 Spy Shots: Subcompact Hatch Refreshed

The interior of the Hyundai HB20 is already well-equipped. A new digital instrument cluster will be offered on higher-end trims. The car already has an 8.-inch touchscreen infotainment screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth audio streaming, as well as other features. Safety technology includes pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking and lane-keep alarm.

The model’s powertrains won’t be changing. The 1.0-liter three cylinder engine delivers 80 to 120 horsepower (59 to 89 kilowatts). Although there is no fancy hybrid technology, Hyundai offers the model with a choice of a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. It sounds like a great combination of the six-cog manual and turbocharged engine.

The Hyundai HB20, the current generation of Hyundais, was launched in 2019. Expect the facelifted model later this year. The subcompact is unlikely to make it to the US. However, small cars are still popular in many countries due to their low price. It’s unlikely that automakers will revive small models in the US, despite high gas prices. We’ll have to enjoy them from afar, until they come down.