Hyundai accelerates hybrid shift and expands affordable automatic models

Hyundai is actively moving away from traditional gasoline and diesel engines, planning to limit pure‑petrol variants on models such as the i30 and Kona in favor of hybrid powertrains. In Australia hybrids already account for about 48% of Hyundai sales and electric‑vehicle volumes have risen 111% annually, while in the United States hybrid sales grew 90% in May 2026. The company cites modest price differences – for example, the Tucson’s gasoline version starts at roughly $29,450 versus $32,450 for the hybrid – and markedly better fuel consumption as drivers’ main incentives.

At the same time, Hyundai’s compact i20 is being reviewed with a seven‑speed dual‑clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The reviewer notes that the DCT adds only about 2,000 KM to the price compared with a manual, yet delivers smoother city driving and reduces clutch‑related stress. The i20’s small 1.0‑litre turbo‑charged engine, now detuned to 90 kW, pairs well with the DCT, offering a practical, budget‑friendly option for urban commuters.

Overall, Hyundai’s strategy combines a broader market push toward hybrids with cost‑effective automatic transmissions in its smaller models, aiming to meet regulatory pressures and consumer demand for efficiency without sacrificing affordability.