Hyundai’s Brazilian arm has revealed a crossover version of its i10-i20 bridging HB20 model at this year’s Sao Paulo Motor Show.
Hyundai revealed the standard version of its market-specific HB20 hatchback about a month ago and has now shown its intention to broaden the model offering by introducing a soft-roader version.
Dubbed the HB20X, this model features such soft-roader staples as chunky lower body cladding finished in black, a raised ride height, a roof rack and a more colourful interior with additional chrome trim and contrasting blue stitching.
Despite its purposeful looks, the HB20X follows in the footsteps of such budget crossovers as the Sandero Stepway and GWM Florid Cross by featuring a front-wheel drivetrain setup. Power is provided by Hyundai’s 1,6-litre Gamma four-pot petrol engine developing 95 kW.
Hyundai’s Brazilian arm also announced that a saloon version of the HB20 is also in the pipeline, while Hyundai Motors South Africa has reiterated that the HB20, or any badge-engineered versions thereof, will remain the preserve of the LHD-only South American market.
Asked whether Hyundai would consider giving any of its SA-bound models a similar crossover treatment to that of the HB20X, a local spokesman said that it was highly unlikely and the company will instead concentrate on its existing all-wheel drive line-up – the ix35 and the new Santa Fe, the latter arriving here in early 2013.
