In the bustling streets of Indian cities, where compact cars reign supreme, the Hyundai i20 has long been a familiar sight.
But the latest iteration of this popular hatchback is turning heads and changing perceptions like never before. Let’s dive into what makes the new i20 a game-changer in the premium hatchback segment.
A Design That Demands Attention
Gone are the days when hatchbacks were synonymous with boring, utilitarian designs. The new Hyundai i20 is a testament to the brand’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design philosophy, and boy, does it deliver!
The front fascia is dominated by a large, cascading grille that gives the car an aggressive stance. Flanking this grille are sleek LED headlamps with distinctive DRLs that could easily belong on a much pricier vehicle.
Move to the side, and you’ll notice the strong character lines that run the length of the car, giving it a sense of motion even when stationary.
The blacked-out C-pillar creates a ‘floating roof’ effect, a design element usually reserved for more premium segments. At the rear, the Z-shaped LED taillights connected by a light bar not only look futuristic but also enhance visibility.
But it’s not just about looks. The i20’s design is functional too. With a drag coefficient of just 0.33, it’s one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class, contributing to better fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.
Step Inside: A Cabin That Punches Above Its Weight
If you thought the exterior was impressive, wait till you step inside. The cabin of the new i20 is a masterclass in how to make a small car feel premium.
The dashboard layout is clean and modern, dominated by a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that seems to float above the center console.
This is complemented by a digital instrument cluster that would look at home in a luxury sedan.
The use of materials is particularly noteworthy. Soft-touch plastics, leatherette upholstery, and metallic accents create an ambiance that’s a far cry from the budget feel often associated with hatchbacks.
The attention to detail is evident in elements like the knurled finish on the climate control dials and the ambient lighting that bathes the cabin in a soft glow at night.
Space, often at a premium in this segment, has been cleverly maximized.
The wheelbase has been increased, translating to more legroom for rear passengers. The boot, at 311 liters, is one of the largest in its class, easily swallowing weekend luggage or the monthly grocery haul.
Under the Hood: Performance Meets Efficiency
Hyundai has always been known for offering a wide range of powertrains, and the new i20 is no exception. The lineup includes:
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A 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine (83 PS)
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A 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine (120 PS)
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A 1.5-liter diesel engine (100 PS)
These can be paired with a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, an iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission), or a 7-speed DCT, depending on the variant.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 1.0-liter turbo-petrol. This little firecracker of an engine delivers punchy performance that belies its small displacement.
Paired with the 7-speed DCT, it makes for a driving experience that’s both engaging and effortless.
But it’s not all about performance. Hyundai has worked hard on improving fuel efficiency across the range.
The diesel variant, in particular, boasts an impressive ARAI-certified fuel economy of 25.2 km/l, making it one of the most efficient cars in its class.
Tech-Savvy: Features Galore
In typical Hyundai fashion, the i20 comes loaded with features that would make some luxury cars blush. The aforementioned 10.25-inch touchscreen is just the tip of the iceberg.
It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a segment-first feature. Then there’s the Bluelink connected car technology, which allows you to control various functions of the car remotely through your smartphone.
Other notable features include:
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A Bose premium sound system with 7 speakers
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Wireless phone charging
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Air purifier with AQI display
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Sunroof
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Cruise control
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Rear AC vents
Safety hasn’t been overlooked either. The i20 comes with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, and Vehicle Stability Management.
It also features a tire pressure monitoring system and a rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines.
Market Impact: Raising the Bar
The launch of the new i20 has sent ripples through the premium hatchback segment. Its combination of striking design, premium features, and varied powertrain options has put pressure on competitors like the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Tata Altroz, and Volkswagen Polo.
Hyundai’s aggressive pricing strategy, with the i20 starting at around ₹6.8 lakh and going up to ₹11.3 lakh (ex-showroom), has made it an attractive proposition for buyers looking for a premium experience without breaking the bank.
The i20’s success has also prompted other manufacturers to up their game. We’re seeing a trend towards more feature-rich offerings in this segment, with a particular focus on connected car technology and premium interiors.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Premium Hatchbacks
The new Hyundai i20 is more than just a car; it’s a statement of intent from Hyundai. It shows that the company is serious about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the premium hatchback segment.
As we look to the future, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovation in this space.
There are already rumors of Hyundai considering a mild-hybrid version of the i20 for the Indian market, which could further improve fuel efficiency and performance.
The success of the i20 also raises interesting questions about the future of sedans in India.
With hatchbacks offering this level of premium features and space, will we see a further shift away from compact sedans?
Hyundai i20 is the most famous car in youngsters
The Hyundai i20 has always been a popular choice in the Indian market, but this new version takes things to a whole new level.
It’s a car that challenges preconceptions about what a hatchback can be, offering a blend of style, technology, and performance that was once the preserve of much more expensive vehicles.
Whether you’re a young professional looking for your first car, a family in need of a practical yet stylish runabout, or just someone who appreciates good design and technology, the new i20 has something to offer.
It’s a car that proves you don’t need to sacrifice style for practicality or features for affordability.
In a market where change is the only constant, the Hyundai i20 stands as a beacon of innovation, showing us a glimpse of what the future of affordable premium motoring might look like.
And if this is the future, it’s looking mighty bright indeed.