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Updated 2016 Hyundai HB20 Launched in Brazil, 1-Liter Turbo Flex Announced

2016 Hyundai HB20 23 photos
Photo: Hyundai
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The Hyundai HB20 is one of the best-selling cars you never knew existed. Launched in Brazil back at the 2012 Sao Paulo Motor Show, this cute hatchback has just received a major upgrade targetting Brazilian consumers.
Three years have passed since it was revealed, and Hyundai's design language has changed for the better in that time. The upgrades start in the cosmetic department, where a hexagonal grille design can be easily noticed. The headlights also connect to the grille, reminding us of the Audi Q7.

Smaller changes have taken place at the back, but the redesigned taillights make a positive impression. Better alloys and extra trim have been used to give the HB20 a more premium appearance.
Inside, Hyundai says it has re-engineered the seats with extra support and more modern fabric. At the center of the console sits a 7-inch screen (offered as an option) that can be connected with both Android and Apple (2016 upgrade) smartphones.

Changes on the chassis side are minimal, but suspension and steering system tweaks have been made. The 2016 Hyundai HB20 continues to be powered by a 1-liter three-cylinder engine or a larger 1.6-liter. Their outputs remain the same at 75 and 122 hp, respectively, but it jumps slightly when Ethanol fuel is used.

The most powerful model is said to reach 100 km/h from a standstill in 11 seconds when equipped with the auto (compare to 11.4s before) and achieve a top speed of 190 km/h. A manual gearbox will shorten that time down to just 9.3 seconds.

Sales will begin in October. Later on, Hyundai plans to mirror the Renault range with a sedan and raised hatchback (Logan and Sandero Stepway rivals). Three trim levels are available, namely Comfort, Comfort Plus and Comfort Style. The latter also gives you access to an automatic gearbox, LED accents and a tire pressure monitor.

Hyundai also took the time to mention that a 1-liter turbo with flex-fuel capabilities will be added in 2016. The same thing will happen to its European brother, the i20, at roughly the same time.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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