Hyundai is developing a new locally built 1.2‑litre turbo-petrol engine with direct injection (T-GDi) in India. This four‑cylinder unit fills the gap between the 1.0‑litre and 1.5‑litre turbo‑petrol offerings in models like the i20, Venue, and Creta. Expect it first in the global Bayon compact SUV (codename BC4i), before rolling into models like the Creta and Venue. The new engine is being designed for hybrid compatibility and fuel efficiency, ensuring it meets upcoming BS‑VII and CAFE‑3 norms.
Why It Matters
The 1.2‑litre TGDi aims to address the torque and drivability limitations of the 1.0‑litre unit, while being more efficient and affordable than the 1.5‑litre unit. Hyundai hopes it will improve mid-range grunt without compromising mileage. Unlike Maruti’s three‑cylinder Z12E, this is a four‑cylinder engine, which will offer smoother performance and better refinement levels.
How, Where & When
Hyundai plans to manufacture the engine in India with high localisation levels to keep costs low. It will likely offer a DCT gearbox along with a manual transmission. The powertrain is expected to debut in the next‑gen Bayon (codenamed BC4i) due mid‑2026, and later in refreshed Creta, Venue, and possibly the i20. Such a rollout also matches India’s push for hybrid vehicles while maintaining price competitiveness.
What’s Not Perfect
While the engine is promising, specific power output, torque, and performance figures are still unknown. Hybrid integration is key, but Hyundai hasn’t confirmed anything there either. Moreover, its success hinges on OEMs pricing hybrids well in a GST regime that still favours EVs over hybrids. Maruti’s simpler and lighter 1.2‑litre Z12E might absorb cost advantages. Execution will matter more than the concept.
Hyundai’s Hybrid Rollout
Currently, Hyundai is one of the only major players in the market that does not offer a hybrid system. This leaves a significant portion of the market untapped, serving those unwilling to fully commit to an electric future. This engine is being designed to work with upcoming hybrid drivetrains in Hyundai’s best-selling models, such as the Creta & Venue. In a fuel-efficiency conscious market such as India, this makes all the difference.
