Hyundai i20 Hatchback Review

Changing the public perception of a brand is never easy, but with the Hyundai i20 the Korean manufacturers have gone from cheap cars with simple engines, to creating a modern super mini that benefits from good investment and which has been taking sales by the bucketload. Let’s take a closer look at what it offers with our Hyundai i20 review.[vc_single_image image=”47013″ img_size=”article-image”]

Nimble On its Feet

Whether you opt for the standard model of the Hyundai i20 Active, or indeed any i20 model, driving quality is the same right across the board. Body control is good, as is handling, whilst the manual gearbox can be heralded as one of the best in the supermini sector. Pick of the engines is the 1.2-litre petrol variant, which can generate 84bhp. This is quite a pert, nimble car and is surprisingly quick (well, quick enough to satisfy some at least), taking 12.7 seconds to get to 62mph from rest – faster than a Fiesta super mini.

Diesel options start with the fairly forgettable 1.1-litre unit, which doesn’t hit 62mph from rest until a yawning 16 seconds. The bulkier 1.4-litre unit hits the spot more, offering good steering and ensuring that the 2015 Hyundai i20 is able to offer a fun ride. It can reach 62mph from rest in 13.2 seconds en route to a top speed of 108mph.[vc_single_image image=”47014″ img_size=”article-image”]

Safe Looks

Safety first would appear to be the byword with the new Hyundai i20 when it comes to styling, despite the company’s dabbling with more edgier looking vehicles. The aim is to appeal to a more mature market, but the problem Hyundai may have is that consumers look instead at a more attractive Peugeot 207 rather than the bland-looking Hyundai i20.

But that’s just the outside, and the looks are bearable if not exciting. Inside is a different story, with quality materials abounding that make this super mini look and feel as though it should be more expensive than it actually is. There are some really classy touches here for the Hyundai i20, with soft-touch surfaces and illuminated dashboard instruments.

Driving position is good too, owing to a height-adjustable seat. The steering column is also adjustable, whilst space at the back is good for adults, although legs might start to ache a little on longer journeys. If you decide to take up the offer of a five-door second hand Hyundai i20, its value for money has certainly lasted, and it makes for the perfect companion for the school-run. Boot space is also pretty good, particularly when the 60:40 spit rear seats are folded.[vc_single_image image=”47015″ img_size=”article-image”]

Facts and Figures

The new Hyundai i20 price range starts at a modest £6,000 for base-level models with the classic trim, with Hyundai i20 deals rising to £7,750 for the Hyundai i20 Active trim, and further to £8,500 if you want the 1.4-litre Blue Drive diesel. Because not all engines are available in each and every trim, you’ll need to decide your reasons for buying. Do you want practicality, a low price, economy, or performance? The popular 1.2-litre petrol engine is cheap to run, with fuel consumption coming in at 57.6mpg whilst emitting 114g/km, whilst the 1.4-litre petrol comes up with numbers of 54.3mpg and 122g/km. For the most expensive Blue Drive diesel, you’re looking at 76.3mpg and tax-free emissions for 96g/km.

Final Thoughts

When it was first launched back in 2012, the Hyundai i20 sold fairly well, but was by no means the manufacturers top-selling car, which was surprising considering that it’s a supermini. A facelift later, and this revised 2015 Hyundai i20 is pretty much everything you need a budget supermini to be. It represents a cheap alternative to costlier variants and comes with a hard-to-beat five year warranty.

If you want to get hold of the new Hyundai i20 don’t hesitate to leave us a message on our contact page, or give us a call on 01903 538835 to find out more about our Hyundai lease deals.[vc_single_image image=”47012″ img_size=”article-image”]