The new model, which makes its world debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show and goes on sale in early 2015, will initially be offered in five-door form, with the three-door model to follow.

The i20 is built on a new platform with a 2,570mm wheelbase – 45mm longer than its predecessor – said to provide one of the most spacious cabins in the segment. Combined front and rear legroom is claimed to be best in class at 1,892 mm, with Hyundai saying that boot capacity is also segment-leading at 320 litres with the rear seats upright.

There’s also a panoramic sunroof whilst other features include a integrated rear-view camera and front and rear LED lighting.

Styling – as revealed by the recently published design sketches – is influenced by the brand’s latest “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” design philosophy, with Hyundai Motor’s Design Centre Europe in Rüsselsheim, Germany having included features from other models. This includes a lower version of the brand’s familiar chrome-framed hexagonal grille. Front headlamp clusters include bi-function projection headlamps, LED daytime running lights and LED positioning lamps.

There’s also a gloss-finished black C-pillar that gives the impression of a floating roofline and wraparound light clusters at the rear with a “boomerang”-shaped LED design.

Engine details have not been announced.

The new i20 will make its public world will take place during Hyundai’s press conference at 2014 Paris Motor Show in Hall 3, at 16:00 CET on Thursday 2nd October.