4 Most Defining Moments in the Development of the 2013 Brazilian Car of the Year – Hyundai HB20! (Review)


hyundai hb20 hatchback front

The Hyundai HB20 is Brazil`s first exclusive model produced at Hyundai’s fully-owned new manufacturing plant in Piracicaba operated by HMB (Hyundai Motor Brazil). This attractive compact hatchback entered in the biggest and most competitive segment in Brazil`s car market.

1.    The Hyundai HB20 is Optimized to the Taste of Brazilian Consumers!

This vehicle means a lot to Hyundai than simply launching a new model. The Hyundai HB20 is the model strategically developed exclusively for the 5th world`s economy – Brazilian market. With the years of dedication of Hyundai`s engineers, this vehicle is optimized to the taste of Brazilian customers and the road conditions in this South American country.



However, at the end HB20 has changed the perception of the Brazilian consumers in the small car segment. Maybe, that is the main reason why this model was named as “2013 Car of the Year” in this country.

2.    The Latest Technology and Modern Design that Differentiate this Vehicle from its Competitors in the Segment!

The Hyundai HB20 is offering the latest technology and modern design that differentiate this vehicle from its rivals in the segment. The comprehensive package of items as a entry level standard are: air-conditioning, hydraulic power steering, dual front airbags, rear spoiler with brake lights, storage compartments etc.

The name “HB” stands for “Hyundai Brazil” and the number “20” is the Hyundai’s characterization for the cars in the small or compact segment.

Hyundai Motor dedicated about 5 years to develop and optimize the new model as a part of the company`s larger regional strategy, with the involvement of Korean and Brazilian engineers in the conception phase. The Korean automaker placed great importance on design based on the Brazilian consumers sensitivity as well as on the fuel efficiency. The Hyundai HB20 features maximum security anti-theft function.

hyundai hb20 hatchback side

3.    Design based on Fluidic Sculpture philosophy -- Modern and Sporty lines, Premium touch and Exclusivity!

The first Brazilian Hyundai model is an economical, compact model that is already considered as benchmark in style thanks to its fluidic lines, excellent finish as well as the quality of its assembly.

HB20 is based on the Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy, with modern and sporty lines, premium touch and exclusivity.

The vehicle`s interior differentiates itself from its rivals with its sophistication, modernity, comfort and practicality. The high quality of its finish, impressive details, chrome and leather-covered parts are options that enhance the car`s stylishness. The HB20 has one of the lowest vibration and noise levels in its segment, while the interior is surprisingly spacious.

4.    Powertrain & Transmission that Leads to Improved Performance and Low Fuel Consumption!

Hyundai offers 3 powertrains for HB20: 1.0-liter and 1.6-liter, with a manual and 1.6-liter with automatic gearbox.

The car’s five-speed manual transmission has precise shifting, rapid response, and provides comfort. The automatic gearbox has four gears, with very smooth changing.

All the vehicles are equipped with a “flex-fuel” engine.

The 1.0-liter model has 3 cylinders, reduced friction, great energy efficiency, low emissions and very low maintenance costs. It`s 6% more powerful than the class average. The 1.6-liter version has 4 cylinders and it`s 23% more powerful than the segment’s average.

The Hyundai HB20 1.6-liter engine is equipped with a CVVT (continuous variable valve timing), which optimizes the air-fuel mixture at low and high rpm, that leads to improved performance and low fuel consumption.

The HB20 also have sedan and crossover versions and the 3 models will all be produced at Hyundai’s manufacturing plant in Brazil that covers 1,390,000 m2 of land, of which 69,000 m2 are facilities. This Hyundai’s plant is 7th overseas manufacturing base outside Korea, after India, China, Turkey, the United States, the Czech Republic and Russia. Hyundai invested approximately US$ 600 million in the facilities.

HMB has already hired 2,000 employees in the Hyundai’s Piracicaba plant and together with its suppliers will create an additional 3,000 jobs and it will also generate 20,000 jobs in the region (indirectly).

hyundai hb20 hatchback rear 2


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