The Hyundai i20 has always set the benchmark when it comes to premium hatchbacks in our country. Though the arrival of subcompact sedans and SUVs has diverted the buyer away from the segment considerably in the last few years, cars like the i20, Maruti Baleno and more recently the Tata Altroz have managed to hold fort for the segment. Now Hyundai has launched the i20 in a brand new generation which is made on a new platform, gets a completely different look, has many more features and yes is expensive as well. I recently drove the car in both its petrol and diesel iterations.
LOOKS
The new i20 has definitely become edgier and sharper than before. The parametric jewel pattern grille is finished in black and chrome is missing from here. The car gets LED projector headlamps and LED DRLs, the shape of which could certainly have been more attractive. Projector fog lamps and a raised hood also add to the exterior appeal. On the profile the car gets 16 inch diamond cut alloys and extensive use of chrome on the window line as well as door handles. However like it or not, it is the rear that will attract your attention the most, with Z-Shaped LED tail lamps that are connected with a chrome garnish, being the highlight. The car is now longer and wider than before, though the height is the same.
INTERIORS
First thing you notice inside the cabin is the impressive quality on offer. Along with that the fit and finish is quite nice too. You just cannot miss the 10.25 inch touch screen system that actually feels too big for a cabin of this size. It connects to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and with Hyundai’s blue link tech the i20 is also a connected car now. Amongst other things you can also start/ stop the engine remotely, use climate control, and find the car’s location. There are some premium features on offer here like an electric sunroof, an air purifier with air quality indicator and a wireless charger with cooling pad, the latter 2 being first in segment. What you will also like is that the steering wheel is both tilt & telescopic, there’s a Bose 7 speaker system and the car also gets in built navigation with live traffic and compass.
ENGINE
There’s a lot to choose from when it comes to engine and gearbox options on the new i20. First the 1.5 litre diesel engine that comes with just a 6-speed manual transmission and promises 25.2 kmpl. Then there’s the 1.2 litre petrol engine gets a 5-speed manual transmission and CVT options where the fuel efficiency hovers around 20 kmpl. Finally the 1.0 litre Turbo GDi petrol gets 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) & 7-Speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) options. Again both will deliver around 20 kmpl. Of these the most powerful is the Turbo engine that churns out a good 120 PS and here the peak torque kicks in at 1,500 rpm which just means that you will have a lot of fun driving around with this engine. With the DCT it achieves a 0-100 kmph time of just 9.9 seconds.
RIDE & HANDLING
The suspension suits the driving needs for Indian road conditions and the ride doesn’t feel bumpy or stiff. The lowered front hood and air curtain contribute to the car offering better aerodynamics. It also inspires confidence when you’re taking corners at high speeds. Hyundai says the new light weight K platform offers enhanced crash performance. Talking about safety the car gets 6 airbags which is the best-in-segment. Features like tyre pressure monitoring system and emergency stop signal have been seen in the segment for the first time.
PRICES
The new Hyundai i20 does set new benchmarks in the segment. With its looks, features and drivability, it will be difficult to beat the car. But the prices can be termed as anything but aggressive. For the 1.2 litre Petrol, it starts at Rs. 6.79 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to Rs 9.69 lakh. For the Diesel prices range between Rs 8.19 lakh and Rs 10.59 lakh. And the Turbo variants are priced between Rs 8.79 lakh to Rs 11.17 lakh which takes the car comfortably in the subcompact SUV territory. You can also choose between 3, 4 and 5 year warranty depending on how much you drive. And yes, customers will also be offered complimentary 3 years’ BlueLink subscription and 3 years’ road side assistance.