Even before a spate of updates, this B-segment hatchback from South Korea could be seen just about everywhere. The i20 is one of the company’s best-selling vehicles, a stalwart - and now gets upgraded from economy to business class with a refreshed look, new features and a smidge more space.
Outside funk
On the exterior, this latest iteration of the i20 features a new grille, redesigned front bumpers, and updated headlamps on the Motion Fluid and Active derivatives. While I didn’t mind the look of the outgoing version of the i20, I think this 2018 version is very much the update I never knew it needed. It’s a lot more grown up and sophisticated, both outside and in.
Speaking of inside, when you climb aboard you’ll encounter a neat and spacious cabin with a new dashboard and centre console. Standard features include a newer entertainment system with integrated Bluetooth connectivity, a USB connection and an AUX-in port. Then there’s air-conditioning on the Motion derivative, climate control on the Fluid and Active versions, steering-wheel mounted controls for the audio system and bags more. On the safety front, there are driver and passenger airbags in all derivatives, ABS and EBD. Neat, safe.
What’s under the bonnet and how does it go?
Really slowly, to be honest. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine pushes out 61 kW and 115 Nm. It’s rather underwhelming and lacks grunt. You have to really stir through the gears to get the engine revs up. This unit is mated with a 5-speed manual transmission.
There is also a 1.4-litre unit with 74 kW and 133 Nm should you wish to upgrade to more power. And you should. This unit comes with a 6-speed manual ‘box but there is also an automatic on offer. The overall drive is smooth and inoffensive. It’s a solid drive. If you’re not in a hurry.
Let’s wrap this up
While it faces tough competition in the shape of the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta, we can’t deny that the Hyundai i20 is and always has been a strong competitor in this segment. And when it comes to standard specification, Hyundai across the board has always impressed.
It’s worth a look if you’re shopping in this segment, but if we’re completely honest it isn’t the strongest offer since traditional rivals have considerably upped their game considerably, and in that regard the i20 feels like it’s playing catch-up. However, the i20 range is quite extensive, so you’ll definitely be able to find one to suit your budget.
Pricing:
| i20 1.2 Motion MT | R229,900.00 |
| i20 1.2 Fluid MT | R241,900.00 |
| i20 1.4 Motion AT | R254,900.00 |
| i20 1.4 Fluid AT | R284,900.00 |
| i20 1.4 Fluid MT (Driven) | R266,900.00 |
| i20 1.4 Active MT | R279,900.00 |
| i20 1.2 Motion MT | R229,900.00 |
Prices includes the 2-year/30 000 km service plan for 1,2-litre derivatives, a 3-year/60 000 service plan for 1,4-litre derivatives, as well as the standard 5-year/150 000 km manufacturer's warranty which is extended with an additional 2 years or 50 000 km powertrain warranty across the range.
i20 1.4 Fluid MT Specs:
| Engine | 1.4-litre, naturally aspirated, inline 4-cylinder |
| Power | 74kW |
| Torque | 133Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 0-100kph | 11.4 seconds
|
| Top Speed | 182kph |
| CO2 Emissions | 147g/km |
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