The Car Auto Review: Hyundai i20 2015 Car Auto Review

Sometimes it seems that it is only after certain models have had a face-lift that you realize it was really in need of one, and that is certainly the case with the i20, that’s not to say there was anything wrong with the last model, it’s just this one looks so much better. It has swept back headlamps, giving it a more aggressive look, a two-door coupe option, and a cool new floating roof design. When it comes to super-mini competition, the Ford Fiesta has long been the benchmark when it comes to engagement, so let me just start by saying the i20 is no Ford Fiesta – which is to say it’s not all that exciting. What you do get from the i20 though is something similar to its SUV sibling the ix35, which offers comfort in spades, with a supple suspension, incredibly comfortable front seats and light, easy to maneuver steering.

A 1.2-litre petrol and 1.4-liter diesel are both offered, the former being the more appropriate for the i20’s urban and city journeys. There is even a 1.1-liter diesel available which emits just 84g/km of CO2. We’re driving the 1.4-liter petrol, which is the most powerful currently in the range with 99bhp and a zero to 62mph sprint time of 11.6 seconds. Although 11.6 seconds sounds a bit sluggish, the 1.4-liter doesn’t feel that way at all, especially with the amount of low down torque you get. This does come at a cost though, as the 1.4-liter emits 127g/km of CO2 and, in real world driving, we’ve been averaging just over 40mpg, some way off Hyundai’s claimed 51.4mpg. Later in 2015, Hyundai plans to increase the flexibility of its i20 by introducing a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol – that should give it more clout against the Fiesta and Corsa.

Hyundai has a reputation for offering impressive levels of kit, and the i20 is no different as all entry-level S models get front electric windows, USB connectivity and tinted windows. The S trim also comes in two separate grades, S Air, which adds air con, and S Blue, which adds Stop/start technology. The Premium SE trim that we have further enforces its comfortable character as it has front heated seats, parking sensors, Bluetooth and even climate control with an automatic de-fog feature, Quality and style in the cabin is decent as well, although there are a few cheap plastics, and the digital clock display gives it a bit of a dated feel, you also have to opt for sat nav to get a touchscreen display. With that said, the interior does look very cool at night, thanks to Hyundai’s trademark blue lighting. The i20’s leg room for rear passengers is up there with the best, head room on the other hand will be a little awkward for six footers, as the stylish roof intrudes on head room somewhat. Overall though, it’s very comfortable in the back.

Boot space is flexible in the i20, with a variable floor height that just makes life that bit easier. Just bear in mind, this removable floor is only available from the second trim up. Also, with 326 liters on offer, this boot is bigger than the Vauxhall Corsa and Ford Fiesta. And, the seats even fold down to give you a reasonably flat loading surface as well. Super-mini customers are a varied bunch, with different requirements. While some will want sporty handling, others prefer comfort. Some go left-field, while offers opt for the quintessential. In the case of the i20, it’s quite easy to label it. This is a car that is built for comfort and it comes with a reassuring five-year warranty, but will cost you a slight premium over something like the Fiesta. But what do you think about the i20?