Hyundai Elite i20 review

The country’s second largest automaker, Hyundai India has launched an updated version of its premium hatchback, Hyundai Elite i20. The company has loaded the Elite i20 with a number of features and it is available in 10 versions. The Hyundai Elite i20 is offered in both petrol and diesel variants. The Petrol variants are priced between Rs. 5,49,350 to Rs. 7,48,948 while, the diesel trims come with a starting price of Rs. 6,60,520. The price is ex-showroom, New Delhi.

One of the standout features of the car is its interiors which are crafted tastefully. At the same time, it is blessed with the company’s latest design philosophy- Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. The car competes against the likes of Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Maruti Suzuki Swift and Fiat Punto EVO.            

ENGINE AND SPECIFICATIONS

Hyundai Elite i20 uses VTVT and CRDi as petrol and diesel engines

The Hyundai Elite i20 comes with 2 engines and 2 fuel options. A 1.2-litre VTVT petrol engine which displaces 1197cc. The engine comes with a power of 82 bhp at 6000 rpm and a peak torque of 115 Nm at 4000 rpm. The petrol version comes mated to a five speed manual gearbox.

On the other hand, the 1.4-litre U2 CRDi diesel engine, which displaces a decent 1396 cc and consists of 4 cylinders and 16 valves. The diesel engine churns out 89 bhp of power at 4000 rpm with a peak torque of 220 Nm at 1500 rpm. This engine comes equipped with a six speed manual gearbox which offers nice gearshifts. Besides, the hatchback has 45 litres of fuel tank capacity.

As far as mileage is concerned, the diesel variant offers a fuel economy of 20 kmpl in city and 22 kmpl on highways, while the petrol variant delivers a mileage of 16 kmpl in cities and 18 kmpl on highways. The petrol engine reaches the 0 -100 kmph mark in 15 seconds with a top speed of 145 kmph. While, the diesel engine achieves the 0 -100 kmph barrier in just 14 seconds with a top speed of 165 kmph.

EXTERIOR

Apart from this Red Passion , the Hyundai Elite i20 comes in 6 more colors

The Hyundai Elite i20 is blessed by the new generation Fluidic Design philosophy 2.0. The front portion of the car is angular and streamlined. This stylish bold car has sharp headlamps which provides maximum penetration in foggy driving conditions. The roof line is lower and more aesthetic and, at the same time, the roof antenna optimizes the signal frequency for excellent audio output.

Besides, the hexagonal lower grille makes the car look attractive. The Hyundai Elite i20 comes in Mystic Blue, Sleek Silver, Midas Gold, Stardust, Polar White, Pristine Blue and Red Passion colour variants.

INTERIOR

Hyundai i20 Elite has a cool interior with a seating capacity of 5 persons

The decent interiors and hi-tech features make the Hyundai Elite i20 a premium hatchback. The interiors are not made of cheap plastic hence it looks much attractive. Five people can comfortably sit and the armrest in the front provides support to arm.

In point of fact, Hyundai has loaded the Elite i20 with a number of features such as push start and stop, keyless entry, reverse parking camera, USB and AUX and in-dash touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, steering mounted controls, adjustable steering wheel, auto folding mirrors, auto headlights and wipers and power windows. At the same time, the spacious glove box of the Hyundai Elite i20 comes with cooling function to keep beverages refreshing and cool.

Moreover, the hatchback has dual airbags and ABS. And, its boot space is enough and comes with luggage lamp feature, that activates with the opening of the boot lid and enables proper lighting in the boot area to help put or locate objects in night. In the same way, the seamlessly integrated seat back pocket is useful in stocking magazines and books.

PERFORMANCE

Hyundai i20 Elite has good performance in diesel as well as petrol segment

The Hyundai Elite i20 has decent performance in its segment. The petrol engine has the best performance, while the diesel is also good performer. The ride is supple that makes it easy to drive on bad roads. Besides, handling is also excellent. The car has disc brakes at the front whereas, in the the rear, it has drums.

In terms of safety, the top variant of the Hyundai Elite i20 comes equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, seat belt pretensions, crash sensing door lock and central locking. On the plus side, the air-conditioner on the car is available with climate control feature, which is extremely effective. Besides, the Hyundai Elite i20 does not make much noise even at high speeds, because of an impressive NVH levels.

ADVANTAGES

The biggest advantage of the Hyundai Elite i20 is its fresh looks and an impressive interior. And, cabin is well insulated. Handling is light so it gives a comfortable
and sophisticated driving experience. Engine of the car is smooth and needless to say, gears are butter smooth. The car has strong pick up.

Moreover, the Hyundai Elite i20 has standard suspension that works silently and its long travel ensures no clumsiness and crashing in working operation. The rear knee room of the car is adequate while the boot at 285 litres is generous also. In addition, the car has an easy to read speedometer which stays illuminated throughout the day.

DRAWBACKS

The main drawback of the Hyundai Elite i20 is its poor ground clearance which is only 165 mm. There is too much chrome on the front. And, the car has no armrest for the rear passengers. In addition, other major drawback of the Hyundai Elite i20 is, it does not have traction control.

VERDICT

The Hyundai Elite i20 is indeed a great car. It is one of the best equipped cars in its segment in the country. The company has done a fabulous job with the Elite i20 interiors. The Hyundai i20 Elite is unbelievably fuel proficient in both petrol and diesel variants. In addition, the car has four power windows and class leading wheelbase. On the security front, the Hyundai Elite i20 comes equipped with smart keyless entry, immobilizer and central locking. Hence, the Hyundai Elite i20 is absolutely perfect for those who need a luxurious hatchback.