MOTORING NEWS - Earlier this year at the launch of the Hyundai i20, journalists and social media influencers took to the road in 15 vehicles waiting for us at the Erinvale Estate Hotel and Spa in Somerset West.
With a new engine and Hyundai's new "Sensuous Sportiness" design identity combined with a roomier cabin, I could not wait to tackle the Cape's passes.
The Hyundai comes in two variants, the Motion and Fluid. The i20 was launched in 2009 in South Africa and has since become one of Hyundai's most successful vehicles, and for good reason.
Compared to the previous i20, the new design is ultra hip and sporty. It is emphasised by its dynamic-looking front and rear bumpers, as well as the new radiator grille. This style will certainly appeal to a youthful market segment or anyone young at heart.
Ride and handling
Navigating corners and passes was fun with the i20's wider wheelbase and turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine. This engine now propels the i20 with a maximum power output of 90kW. It is linked to either a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) or a 6-speed manual transmission.
Two naturally aspirated petrol engines - the 1.2 Kappa petrol engine, linked to a 5-speed manual gearbox, and the 1.4 MPi, matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission - are used in the other variants in the i20 range.
The new Hyundai i20 is also much more aerodynamic than its predecessor, which helps improve fuel economy. It handles extremely well due to its firmer sporty suspension.
At the front McPherson struts with dampers and coil springs are used for the suspension, while a coupled torsion beam axle with dampers and coil springs are employed at the rear.
The Hyundai i20 is a great fuel saver.
Interior
Occupants of the all-new i20 Fluid variants can enjoy pleasant subtle interior lighting at night thanks to new blue LED ambient light technology.
Meanwhile, the interior space achieves an airy feeling inside the cockpit, while appearing sculptured and appealing. One design highlight is the horizontal blades that cover the high and prominent dashboard.
Passengers can also enjoy 88 mm more leg room and 40 mm more shoulder room than in the previous generation and boot space has also been expanded. The dash is a bit plasticky, but still well moulded with good style.
The interior has an airy feeling. A design highlight is the horizontal blades that cover the high and prominent dashboard.
Convenience features
Among the many convenience features in the all-new i20 are:
- Electric folding mirrors for the Fluid variants;
- A rear-view monitor with guidelines displayed on the infotainment system's screen;
- Air-vents for rear passengers in the Fluid variants;
- A USB charging socket and cellphone storage space for rear passengers;
- A multi-function steering wheel with radio and telephone control buttons (all variants); and
- A cruise-control function on the steering wheel for Fluid variants.
Safety
The Hyundai i20 boasts a reinforced body structure. It also has six airbags in the Fluid and two in the Motion derivatives.
An anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard features in the whole range.
All models are equipped with Isofix latches for child seats.
Pricing
The new Hyundai i20 range in South Africa consists of no less than eight derivatives.
- 1.2 Motion manual: R275 900
- 1.4 Motion automatic: R305 900
- 1.2 Fluid manual: R289 900
- 1.2 Fluid manual 2-tone: R294 900
- 1.0 TGDI Fluid manual: R330 900
- 1.0 TGDI Fluid manual 2-tone: R335 900
- 1.0 TGDI Fluid DCT: R355 900
- 1.0 TGDI Fluid DCT 2-tone: R360 900
Compared with its predecessor, the new i20's proportions are more dynamic, while ensuring practical navigation in busy urban areas.
The i20 has a high residual value, thanks to its standard equipment offering, as well as its seven-year / 200 000km manufacturer's warranty. If the vehicle is sold, the warranty is passed on to the next owner, thereby maximising its resale value, and generating peace of mind for the full warranty period.
A four-year / 60 000km service plan and seven-year / 150 000km roadside assistance also forms part of the standard package.
I personally think this is a great car and it will be a very popular vehicle on South African roads. Although the i20's marketing strategy is focused on young people, I think this car is the perfect fit for almost anyone. It could be your first ever car, second family car, or granny's fuel saver.
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