The B+ segment hatchback, Hyundai i20 has created a huge rage in the automobile market since its launch. Its beautiful and attractive design appeals one and all. All the high hopes attached to this car have seemed to be fulfilled in a great way. Hyundai had anticipated its success but was confident too. With the Indian consumers receiving it so well, everyone knew India has moved beyond the typically low budgeted small hatchbacks and is ready to accept the finer and more expensive hatchbacks. Hyundai i20 exudes charisma, style and elegance.
Although everyone believes it has been designed on the lines of the Maruti Suzuki Swift but i20 did write its own success story. This beautiful looking hatchback was first launched in 2009 and since then it did get a facelift done. Today in 2012 the new enhanced i20 is a definite show-stealer and has carved a niche for itself. It is available in five variants- Era, Sportz, Magna, Magna Optional Asta and Asta Optional with sunroof. So let’s move on ahead and know it all about this lovely hatchback called Hyundai i20.
Engine and Tech specifications
Engine options available in Hyundai i20 are 1.2 and 1.4 litre petrol engine and 1.4 litre diesel engine. The 1.4 litre 1396 cc petrol engine produces 84 PS maximum power at 5200 rpm and 11.4 Kgm maximum torque at 4000 rpm. It has got a Variable Timing Valve Train mechanism in it. It has got a five speed manual transmission gearbox. The 4 speed automatic transmission engine gives peak power of 100 PS at 5500 rpm and 13.9 kgm maximum torque at 4200 rpm. The 1196 cc diesel engine gives out a maximum power of 90 PS at 4000 rpm and 22.4 kgm maximum torque at 1750- 2750 rpm.
Electrical EGR and Hydraulic lash adjustor technologies have been used in the diesel engine to bring down the noise, vibration and harshness levels. The high pressure common rail direct injection system is responsible for improved mileage. The suspension is Mc Pherson struts with gas shock absorber in the front and the rear ones are torsion beam axle with gas absorber shock. The transmission gear system is six speed manual one. The i20 has got 14 inch 8 spoke wheels with Sportz, Asta and Asta Optional having alloyed ones. The ground clearance of i20 is 165 mm and the total wheelbase is 2525mm. The length of the car is 3940 mm, height 1505 mm and the width 1710 mm.
Exterior design
Hyundai i20 is known for its unconventional, dynamic and stylish exteriors. The glossy grille has been designed stylishly with drop shaped headlamps. The tailgate and bonnet too have been sculpted beautifully. Sunroof provided in the i20 Hyundai car gives it a chic and elite look. The fog lights give a clear visibility. The rear spoiler has integrated stop lamps.
The bumpers, turn indicators integrated outside rear view mirrors and door handles are all body coloured. Some of the very amazing features include auto headlight control function, rain sensing wipers and electro chromic mirror offering anti-glare night driving vision clarity. Hyundai i20 is available in lovely colours such as black, sleek silver, silky beige, dark grey metallic, black diamond, silky silver, berry red and sparkle blue.
Interiors
The cabin of the hatchback is spacious and roomy. The rear seats have 60:40 split folding system. Five people can sit comfortably in the car. The doors have cup holders which indicate towards a good usage of the space in the cabin. Luggage space is ample too. Passenger glove box is present too. The front and rear head rests are adjustable. Hyundai i20’s audio controls of the 2 DIN music system with four speakers, 2 tweeters and Bluetooth connectivity have been given on the steering.
Four speakers and one USB port has been given on the dashboard. The rear view mirrors can be adjusted electrically. Air conditioner installed in the car is climate control sensitive. Blue cluster illumination, burglar alarm and passenger vanity mirror are among its new features. Rear parking camera, clean air-cluster ionizer, supervision cluster and full automated temperature control together make up for great features.
Performance
The performance of i20 is undoubtedly very good. The automatic 4 speed transmission petrol engine of i20 gives a mileage of 11.4 kmpl in the city and 15.1 kmpl on highways. The manual 6 speed transmission petrol engine gives a mileage of 15 kmpl in the city and 17 kmpl on highways. The 6 speed manual transmission diesel engine delivers a mileage of 18 kmpl in the city and 23 kmpl on highways. The noise, harshness and vibration levels are quite low in i20. 6 airbags, clutch lock system, ABS, EBD, low fuel warning lamp, ignition key reminder, child safety lock, keyless entry, impact sensing auto door unlock, RDH control, central locking are counted among its amazing safety features.
Pros
- Superb safety features
- Awesome design and styling
- Good mileage
Cons
- Interior plastic quality not very good
- Over priced
Verdict
The looks speak volumes about Hyundai i20’s popularity and the engine doesn’t fail to live up to the expectations of the consumers. So if your budget happens to fall between Rs. 4,73,400 and 7,67,405 (ex-showroom Delhi) go for i20 without doubts.
