Fresh out of the box the i20 represents latest addition to Hyundai family of cars with the “i” prefix in the badge. Soon to be replacing one of the most popular but ageing Hyundai model Getz, it will be offered in three different levels. Designed to challenge premium small car market it’s cleverly presented with high equipment levels. It comes as no surprise that this car is far superior to the outgoing model it will soon be replacing and far closer to some of the newest entries from the competition such as Ford Fiesta or Mazda 2. Its first choice, entry level i20 Active, is offered as three or five door hatch. Powered by smaller four cylinder 1.4 Litre DOHC 16v engine with five speed manual gearbox it develops 74kW of power @ 5500rpm and 136Nm of torque @ 4200rpm. Three doors hatch is priced at $14,900 whilst five doors will check your valet for another $1,000. Automatic transmission is available for additional $2,000. Followed by rest of the line up, Elite and Premium i20 are offered as five door hatches only. Engine capacity has been increased to 1.6 Litre. Its four cylinder DOHC 16v engine adds 16kW and 20Nm to the front wheels through its standard 5 speed manual gearbox. Four speed automatic transmission will again set you back additional $2,000.
All three models are equipped with Electronic Stability Control, ABS and dual front airbags as standard. Standard inclusion list for Active i20 contains keyless entry with central locking, steering wheel mounted radio controls, USB and iPod connectivity “a must have item for younger drivers”, electric windows and mirrors, glove box cooler which comes in handy, especially during our summer. Premium and Elite i20 benefit from added safety with inclusion of Side and Curtain airbags that will also be included in Active from September this year. Elite exterior treatment receives 15” alloys and fog lights. Premium i20 tops the list with automatic climate control, electric-fold mirrors and leather inserts in its upholstery. Range topper Premium i20 is selling for $23,490. Use of better quality materials resulted in considerably better Interior finish capable to challenge anything that stands against it within this small car market, although some interior materials look rather cheap.
Priced slightly higher than outgoing model Getz but far more accomplished from design, quality and standard inclusion perspective it should provide Hyundai with far better alternative in this very competitive class.
This Hyundai i20 article has been added by Lenka Bezekova
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