Spotted testing for the first time ever, this is the all-new 2nd generation Hyundai Xcent compact-sedan. The Xcent is due for a full model change and it has been 5 years before the car made a debut here in the Indian market. The new-gen Xcent was caught testing out in Europe, before the global debut happens in India which will most probably be at the 2020 Indian Auto Expo.
Hyundai could change the name of the car since it is now synonymous of a taxi in our market. Previously the Hyundai Accent also went down as a not so aspirational car towards the end of the life cycle and hence, Hyundai could very well give the new generation car a new nomenclature. As of now, nearly 50% sales of the Hyundai Xcent come from the fleet operators. However, for the fleet market, Hyundai is likely to update the current model and keep it on sale along with the all-new 2020 Xcent, or whatever it will be called.
From the spyshots, one can notice that the new car has a very evolutionary design. The body profile is still very Xcent-like and it will be easy to relate / connect it as a Hyundai when launched. This will also be a sub-4 metre sedan, so it gets tax benefits and will rival the likes of Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Ford Aspire, Tata Tigor and Honda Amaze.
The 2020 Hyundai Xcent will get the cascading signature Hyundai grille, new fog lamp housing, expect LED DRLs and LED tail lamps, new alloy wheels, new ORVM design, new alloy wheels, a more curvy design with bold crease lines, possible introduction of projector headlamps for top trims, and more… The side profile especially looks very similar to the current Xcent model. On the inside, expect a touchscreen colour infotainment system, new larger MID, dual tone interiors, better seats, improved front and rear passenger space, rear AC vents, cruise control, BlueLink connectivity and more…
Hyundai will offer BSVI engines on the 2020 Hyundai Xcent. Hyundai is most likely to continue with diesel engines as well in the lower segments as there is enough demand to justify the upgrade costs. Expect the same 1.2L Kappa petrol and 1.2L U2 CRDi engines on the Xcent. AMT gearbox options could also be on offer for those seeking convenience, which might replace the 4-speed conventional torque converter automatic option.
