Hyundai HB20X softroader debuts at São Paulo Motor Show

Hyundai is launching a new line of cars exclusive to its Brazilian consumers called the HB (Hyundai Brasil). And after revealing the HB20 hatchback back in September, the new Hyundai HB20X made its official debut at the São Paulo Motor Show recently.

The newcomer features a beefed-up exterior and more ground clearance. It also comes at the same time Honda’s similar Fit Twist was unveiled. The HB20X looks like a jazzed-up version of the US-spec Elantra GT.  But, it possesses more of a soft-roader appearance than the base HB20 thanks to its taller ride height, tinted headlights and taillights, black plastic trim around the lower edge of the car and rear fascia, black decal on the side doors and the roof rack.

The HB20X on display in São Paulo also gets a flashier interior with blue contrast stitching on steering wheel and seats, sport pedals and chrome accents, although Hyundai says some of these features “may change slightly” once the car leaves the show floor.

The HB20X is available with all-wheel drive, and power comes from Hyundai’s, 1.6-liter Gamma I4 producing 128 hp.

A sedan version of the HB will also join the lineup when it goes on sale next year, and all HB models will be produced in Hyundai’s new Brazilian assembly plant in Piracicaba. The HB20X is expected to rival the crossover style Suzuki SX4 and Subaru XV Crosstrek.