There are many vehicles sold in Brazil that look more like what they are than they actually are, and the Hyundai HB20 Sport appears to be the newest member of this club of sport-styled models, which include models with a more modern look. truly sportyBut they lack the most important feature: a powerful engine under the hood.

Today we're going to debunk the myth that the new Hyundai HB20 Sport is actually a sports car. Let's check out the analysis we at Senhor Carros have done on this model!

While the new version of the HB20 Sport isn't as radical as a Sandero RS, at least the manufacturer got one thing right: it equipped the model with the new 1.0 turbo engine, much more responsive and economical than the outdated 1.6 16V that powers its off-road-focused sibling, the Sandero RS. HB20X.

The new Hyundai HB20 Sport comes with a cool visual overhaul and has gained a series of sporty accessories and items, but is it really worth paying more for a car that only has a "sporty look" and doesn't offer a truly exciting driving experience? 

The answer to that question will now be provided. 

Anyone who follows national car launches knows that the 2019 HB20 was one of the automaker's most embarrassing and controversial new models. Its bold lines truly divided opinions, and even brand supporters disapproved of the change. 

If you're one of those who didn't like the look of the 2019 Hyundai HB20, we have two pieces of news: one good and one bad. 

As is common in these cases, let's start with the bad news! Unfortunately, the manufacturer didn't completely change the hatchback's design. However, the good news is that the Hyundai HB20 Sport looks much better than its "normal" version.

The HB20 Sport received a real aesthetic boost, the formula of which had a touch of sportiness. At the front, the wide and unnecessary grille swapped its chrome frame for a glossy black finish.

Below, a small red stripe sets the tone for the "Sport" name. The headlights and taillights have gained a darkened mask, while the 16-inch alloy wheels are exclusive to this version and feature a red center cap, which complements the "sporty" look the model has received.

The rearview mirror covers also received a glossy black paint finish, the same color as the attractive rear spoiler. A small appliqué on the lower portion of the rear bumper, reminiscent of an extractor, adds a sporty touch that is purely visual.

Inside, the Hyundai HB20 Sport also has a sporty feel, with glossy black accents around the air vents and a carbon fiber-look finish on the dashboard.

The seats are upholstered in leather and feature the version name embroidered on the headrests. Visible red stitching is also easily visible and noticeable. 

This sporty interior design wasn't fully extended to the steering wheel, which could have benefited from a more refined design to complete the package. The interior space is good and comfortably accommodates four adults. Finally, the trunk, with 300 liters of capacity, is within the segment average. 

The Hyundai HB20 Sport's equipment list is entirely based on the Evolution version, and this is one of the model's strong points. 

Traction and stability control, hill start assist, air conditioning, power steering and windows on all four doors, trip computer, cruise control, and rear parking sensors are all part of the standard features on the HB20 Sport. 

However, the "sports version" offers some additional features, and the most striking is the wireless phone charger, an exclusive feature of the Sport version, meaning it's not even found in the top-of-the-line version of the regular HB20. 

The multi-function steering wheel is another highlight, as in addition to the controls, it also has paddle shifters for changing gears. The only real optional extra on the model is the metallic paint, which can be purchased for R$ 950.

In terms of safety, the Hyundai HB20 Sport disappoints because it does not offer side airbags, only the front airbags that are mandatory by law. 

The stability and traction controls, along with hill start assist and the included tie-down hooks, ensure the model fulfills the basic and necessary safety requirements. 

From a maintenance standpoint, we have good news. Because the model is sportier, and not a true sports car, the maintenance costs are the same as the conventional HB20, which is certainly a positive thing.

And here we have the real weaknesses of the Hyundai HB20 Sport: The engine, the transmission, and consequently the performance. 

Unlike the HB20X, which is only sold with the outdated 1.6 16V 130 horsepower engine, the HB20 Sport only has the new 1.0 turbo engine with 120 horsepower. Even though it is less powerful, the combination delivers superior performance. 

One of the main complaints regarding the Hyundai HB20 Sport is that the model is only equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, and there's an explanation for this. The manufacturer defends itself against these accusations, saying that the target audience for the new model isn't purists who insist on manual gear changes, hence the choice of an automatic transmission.

However, surprisingly, agility is one of the model's main characteristics. But don't expect explosive responses worthy of a sports car. If you're not a purist, the dynamic behavior of the HB20 Sport certainly won't disappoint you. 

Like its predecessor, the hatchback offers adjustments for those who enjoy driving. The steering wheel provides direct and functional responses, although it could be a little less light, which would provide a greater sense of security at high speeds. 

The 120 horsepower turbocharged engine is more than enough for overtaking and acceleration without surprises. The suspension is firm and literally glues the car to the ground, which solved one of the biggest annoyances of its predecessors: the unstable behavior of the rear in various driving conditions. 

Regarding fuel consumption, the HB20 Sport also doesn't disappoint, even though it only comes with an automatic transmission. 

When fueled with ethanol, the car achieves an average of 8.2 km/L in the city and 10.4 km/L on highways. When the fuel is changed to gasoline, the figures rise to 11.7 km/L in urban areas and 14 km/L on highways. 

The Hyundai HB20 Sport aims to continue the trend of previous sportier models in the HB20 line. Before it, the automaker had already launched the Spicy and R-Spec versions. 

The model costs a whopping R$ 70,990, making it more expensive than the evolution version, which has the same engine but lacks sporty accessories and some standard features. 

The Hyundai HB20 Sport is 3940 mm long, 1470 mm high, 1720 mm wide, and has a wheelbase of 2530 mm. 

The HB20 Sport is an interesting option for lovers of the conventional Hyundai HB20 who are willing to pay a little more for a model with a sporty look, without giving up the economical turbo engine and affordable maintenance.

In terms of the market, the main competitors of the Hyundai HB20 Sport are the Onix Premier Turbo and the... Ford Ka Titanium. The GM model is more expensive, while the Ford vehicle is cheaper, which could lead to an interesting battle among consumers. 

But now, we want to hear from you. What's your opinion on the HB20 Sport? Did you like it? Didn't you? Why? Leave a comment telling us if you would buy the sporty model from the South Korean automaker or not. 

And since we're talking about sporty models, how about getting to know another model with track appeal, but made for the street? We're talking about the Toyota Corolla GR Sport. To learn more about the vehicle that should arrive in Brazil in 2021, just click the button below!