From our reporter: We have received word from a reliable source within Hyundai that the I20's launch has been deferred to the first quarter of 2009. We are awaiting further details and will keep you up-to-date.

Hyundai i20, the premium hatchback model, is ready to make its foray in India in November 2008. It was recently launched at the Paris Motor Show 2008 and will begin its booking in India by the last week of November 2008. However, the new Hyundai model will be absent in the showrooms. It will be available only a little later.

The new premium, 5-door, hatchback model is completely built on an all-new platform and is actually designed to suit the European tastes in both style and ride. The car was designed at Hyundai’s European Car Design Centre in Russelsheim, Germany and will have a longer wheel base than Hyundai Getz.

The new model is laden with exciting new technologies with more room inside the car and dynamic outward appearance. The car will be manufactured at the Hyundai’s Chennai manufacturing facility at Sriperumbudur. This manufacturing facility shall cater to the domestic as well as the overseas demands of the car. The new Hyundai i20 will be available in both petrol and diesel versions and will compete with the Maruti Swift in its segment. Although price of the car has not been revealed officially, it is expected to fall in the price range of Rs. 5.5 lakh and above (ex-showroom).