What is it?
If you cast yourself back to the early 2000s, the Hyundai Getz was the car that started to transform the firm’s rather dull image. The i20 was its replacement, and ever since it’s become better equipped, sharper to drive and more attractive to look at.
However, the i20 has arguably become a little bit lost in the world of B-segment hatchbacks, with strong competition from the likes of the Renault Clio and Volkswagen Polo. So, Hyundai has given its small and stylish supermini a few subtle updates to keep it in-line with its European rivals. Is this updated model any good? We’ve been finding out.
What’s new?
You’ll need a real eagle eye to spot the differences. There’s a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes, sportier-looking front headlights, fresh LED tail lights, a new rear bumper, and new alloy wheel designs, while the Hyundai badge has moved from the grille to the bonnet.
Its interior remains unchanged compared to the outgoing model. In terms of mechanicals, running gear and standard equipment – it all remains the same as in the previous model, too.
What’s under the bonnet?
The i20 only comes with the option of one powertrain. The engine in question is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol that utilises 48V mild-hybrid technology to boost economy. It produces 99bhp and 172Nm of torque, which allows the i20 to get from 0-60mph in 10.9 seconds and tops out at 114mph.
Our test car comes fitted with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, but there is the option of a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
What’s it like to drive?
Hyundai’s latest offerings have really been impressive out on the road, and this updated i20 is a pleasant experience. The handling is neat and precise and the steering is sharp, while the six-speed manual gearbox is slick, smooth and the clutch pedal is very light – it makes town driving a doddle.
Visibility all round is excellent, partly due to the C-pillar windows, and all the controls are logically laid out. The engine does lack grunt from time-to-time with the car struggling to get up to speed, and the ride is fidgety with the i20’s chassis getting upset over the slightest imperfections. Its refinement is also lacking with a fair bit of tyre roar entering the cabin.
How does it look?
The i20 has never been a car that sets hearts racing when it comes to looks. But ever since this latest generation car launched back in 2020, the design has become more dynamic looking.
Its exterior styling features lots of curves and creases to make the whole appearance look a lot sportier. At the front, the headlamps morph into the radiator grille and the rear tail lights wrap around the boot lid to make a single light bar. One neat little touch is the way the fuel filler flap blends into the rear light cluster.
Our test car also stands out with the addition of a new paint scheme called ‘Lucid Lime’. It’s very bright and stands out in a world of grey, silver and white vehicles.
What’s it like inside?
Inside hasn’t changed over the outgoing car. Ergonomically, the i20’s cabin is simply designed with physical climate control buttons and a 10.25-inch touchscreen that is easy to use.
The interior doesn’t feel as plush as European rivals, with hard plastics used throughout.
Storage is acceptable enough with two cup holders, a centre armrest that doubles up as a cubby hole, average sized door bins and a glove box.
Space in the back is rather impressive, with average sized adults being more than comfortable with decent head and legroom. It’s just a shame that although you get decent sized rear door bins, there is limited practicality in the back with only one seat pocket and no centre armrest.
Its boot capacity stands at 352 litres and this expands to 1,165 litres when the rear seats are folded. The i20 also comes with a moveable boot floor – in its highest position it gives a completely flat loading area.
What’s the spec like?
Hyundai is very generous when it comes to offering its cars with standard equipment. The i20 range consists of Advance, Premium, Ultimate and N Line S.
The entry-level Advance model starts at £21,880 and boasts lots of toys such as LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
We’re driving the higher-spec Ultimate trim, which is priced from £24,530, and comes fully loaded with a premium Bose sound system, a glass sunroof, keyless entry and push button start as well as a wireless smartphone charger.
The flagship N Line S takes the Ultimate’s equipment levels and adds sportier styling cues both inside and out.
Like with all Hyundai’s, the i20 comes as standard with a five-year or 100,000 mile warranty, giving the buyer added peace of mind.
Verdict
Hyundai’s i20 is a safe and sensible choice among superminis. It looks good, handles well and comes packed with lots of standard equipment.
It may not be the most interesting or exciting car in this sector, but with decent levels of practicality and the firm’s long warranty package, the i20 still has a competitive streak in the B-segment hatchback class.
- Model as tested: Hyundai i20 Ultimate MHEV
- Price as tested: £25,130
- Engine: 1.0-litre turbocharged mild-hybrid petrol
- Power: 99bhp
- Torque: 172Nm
- Top speed: 114mph
- 0-60mph: 10.9 seconds
- MPG: 51.3mpg
- CO2 emissions: 125g/km
