Automobz.com’s Official Blog

So, the Hyundai i20 finally meets the eye in actual form, and let me share a little secret with you. There is a little of MG and Merc splashed on it. Find my words hard to digest? Check out the bonnet and you will know what I mean. There is an ‘elephant’s-trunk-sort-of-kink’ running vertically towards the grille section. Two cars, namely MG SV-R concept and Mercedes-Benz SLK instantly started ringing bells in my head the moment I saw the i20. Nonetheless, this compact from Hyundai does look quite appealing. We were hoping for it not to be just a larger version of i10, and we are glad to say that it is not.

The Hyundai i20 is quite a big car for small-car segment. It is longer and wider than the Getz and sports a wheelbase of 2525mm that should make it one of the roomiest cars in the segment, rivalling even a few mid-segment cars. The interior also looks classy and generously appointed. The equipment list is comprehensive. Items like climate-control unit, 2-DIN four speaker MP3 audio system, multi-function steering wheel, tyre pressure monitoring system, height adjustable driver seat and keyless entry populate the car’s handbook pages and brochures. The 40:60 split folding rear seat and boot capacity of nearly 300-litre would enhance the practicality quotient of i20. There’re a lot of storage spaces inside the cabin and the passenger glovebox comes with a cooler dedicated to it.

The i20 sports an all-new platform. Front suspension comprises of McPherson strut and the rear is made up of a torsion beam setup to endow the car with taut handling characteristics and a well-damped ride quality. The safety is not compromised and Hyundai is confident of being awarded with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. ABS with EBD, six airbags, electronic stability control along with tyre pressure monitoring system are there to support and protect you in the worst of situations.

Hyundai has quite a few engines which it could bring to India as well. There is a 1.2L, 78bhp engine that powers the i10 Kappa too and has proven itself as an eager performer. A 1.4L, 100bhp engine is also on cards but we doubt it will see the light of day in India. A 1.4L common rail diesel engine is speculated. Hyundai could bring in the 1.4L diesel in both 75bhp as well as 90bhp options, just to keep the performance freaks happy.