Hyundai has issued the first images of the i20, its five-door hatch which has been designed to replace the Getz supermini. In the wake of the i30 and i10, the Hyundai i20 is specifically designed for the European market with an emphasis on build quality, comfort and value. Larger than the Getz, it sits on a longer wheelbase (2455mm), and also offers a better-equipped, more spacious interior.

Not only will the Hyundai i20 be based on an completely new platform, but it will also be available with a choice of 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engines, as well as a new 89bhp 1.4-litre common-rail diesel unit. This is the same unit which will power the new eco-friendly i20 i-Blue that will also be unveiled at Paris.

The i-Blue, which produces 89bhp and 162lb/ft of torque, uses a six-speed manual gearbox in place of the i20’s standard five-speed. It is also fitted with low-resistance tyres, underfloor covers, aerodynamic changes and low-friction engine oil in order to return just 99g/km of CO2 and 68mpg. And while a standard 1.4-litre diesel i20 will also be available from launch, we’ll have to wait till next Spring for the three-door i20 which will follow the five-door model (pictured) launch in January next year.

Prices are expected to start at around £9000 for the five-door, with the three-door possibly being as much as £1000 cheaper.