Hyundai i20

Car buying is a big decision, isn't it? You think about your budget, how safe the car is, how much it will cost to maintain every month, what cool features it has, and how good the company's service is. Well, if you are looking for a car that ticks most of these boxes, especially in the premium hatchback segment, then the new Hyundai i20 definitely deserves your attention. Let's take a closer look at what makes the i20 a strong contender for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Hyundai i20 for the Indian market is known for its refined petrol engine.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa Petrol Engine
• Displacement: 1197 cc
• Max Power: 83 PS at 6000 rpm (Manual), 88 PS at 6000 rpm (IVT)
• Max Torque: 114.7 Nm at 4200 rpm
• Fuel Type: Petrol

Design Overview

Hyundai cars are often praised for their design, and the i20 is no exception.

• Exterior Design: The new Hyundai i20 has a very sleek and sporty look. It features Hyundai's signature cascading grille that looks bold and modern. The Z-shaped LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lamps) give it a unique light signature, especially at night. It also gets stylish alloy wheels and sharp character lines along the body, making it stand out on the road. It looks dynamic and premium.
• Interior Design: Step inside and you will immediately notice the premium feel. The cabin is well-designed with a dual-tone theme in some variants, giving it an upmarket vibe. The dashboard layout is driver-focused, and the quality of materials used feels good. The digital instrument cluster adds to the modern appeal, and there is ample space for four adults, making it comfortable for city drives and highway journeys.

Key Features

The i20 is packed with features, living up to Hyundai's reputation for offering segment-leading amenities.

• 10.25-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Hyundai Bluelink Connected Car Technology
• Electric Sunroof
• Wireless Phone Charging
• Automatic Climate Control
• Bose Premium Sound System (7 speakers)
• Digital Instrument Cluster
• Rear AC Vents
• Cooled Glove Box
• Cruise Control
• Paddle Shifters (IVT variants)

What is the Ground Clearance of the Hyundai i20?

• 170 mm (unladen)

What is the Boot Space of the Hyundai i20?

• 311 Litres

What are the Dimensions of the Hyundai i20?

• Length: 3995 mm
• Width: 1775 mm
• Height: 1505 mm
• Wheelbase: 2580 mm

Powertrain Options

Currently, the Hyundai i20 comes with a single engine option but offers two transmission choices:

• 1.2 Litre Kappa Petrol Engine with 5-speed Manual Transmission
• 1.2 Litre Kappa Petrol Engine with IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) automatic

Safety Features

Hyundai has equipped the i20 with a good list of safety features, keeping your well-being in mind.

• 6 Airbags (Standard across all variants)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Hill Assist Control (HAC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Rear Parking Camera
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock
• Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock

NCAP Rating Table

Understanding a car's safety rating is crucial. Here's what we know about the Hyundai i20.

Rating Type	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection	Test Protocol
Global NCAP (2022)	3 Stars	4 Stars	Safer Cars for India (Updated)
Bharat NCAP	Not Yet Tested	Not Yet Tested	N/A

Note: The Global NCAP rating is for the India-spec i20 tested in 2022 under their updated protocol. This current generation i20 is built on the same platform.

Rivals of Hyundai i20

The premium hatchback segment is quite competitive in India. The Hyundai i20 faces strong competition from:

• Maruti Suzuki Baleno
• Tata Altroz
• Toyota Glanza

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros of Hyundai i20:

• Feature Loaded: It comes packed with segment-first and segment-leading features, enhancing convenience and comfort.
• Premium and Sporty Design: Both the exterior and interior look modern, sophisticated, and appealing.
• Refined Engine: The 1.2L petrol engine is smooth and refined, making city commutes pleasant.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps, providing a comfortable ride for occupants.
• Good After-Sales Service: Hyundai's widespread service network and customer support are generally very good.
• Multiple Powertrain Options: Offers both manual and IVT automatic, catering to different driving preferences.

Cons of Hyundai i20:

• Pricey: Compared to some rivals, the i20 can be a bit more expensive, especially the top variants.
• Engine Performance: While refined, the 1.2L petrol engine might feel a bit underpowered for spirited driving on highways or quick overtakes.
• Missing Turbo Petrol/Diesel: The 1.0L turbo petrol option was discontinued, which might disappoint enthusiasts looking for more power. There is no diesel engine option either.
• Fuel Efficiency: While decent, some rivals might offer slightly better mileage figures.

Conclusion

The new Hyundai i20 continues to be a very strong contender in the premium hatchback segment in India. It offers a winning combination of stylish looks, a feature-rich and comfortable cabin, and the trust of the Hyundai brand. While it might be a bit on the pricier side and lacks a powerful engine option now, its overall package, safety features, and premium appeal make it an excellent choice for urban families and individuals who prioritize modern features, comfort, and design. If you are looking for a well-rounded premium hatchback that feels premium and comes loaded with tech, the Hyundai i20 should definitely be on your shortlist. Take a test drive and experience it for yourself to see if it fits your needs perfectly.