• Summary
• What's Good
• What's Bad
• On the Road
• In The Cabin
• Prices and Specs
• Owners' Reviews

Latest Update 12-5-2012: Resonance at 3,250rpm in post facelift automatics can be cured by fitting a damper to the longer of the two driveshafts.

9-5-2012: If an i20 suffers a front tyre blowout, the resulting drop in ride height can result in severe damage to the front valence, radiator and front lower suspension wishbone.

Introduction:

The Hyundai i20 is the replacement for the dated Getz and it's a huge improvement in both quality and design. So much so in fact, the Hyundai i20 is a genuine rival to more established small hatchbacks like the Toyota Yaris and Vauxhall Corsa.

It majors on value for money with competitive prices and generous standard equipment levels. The i20 also comes with a five-year warranty as standard, backing up the feeling it has of a very well built and durable car. But this hasn't been at the expense of comfort or interior quality.

Inside it's neatly laid out with a comfortable cabin, intuitive controls and a classy steering wheel design. True, some of the cheaper models can feel a little sparse inside (with rather less appealing plastics used) but they still share the same robust feel. Refinement is impressive too and on the move there's little engine or road noise, so motorway cruising is pleasantly stress free.

Thanks to neat steering and well set-up suspension, the Hyundai i20 is good to drive, striking an impressive balance between handling and ride comfort. This is backed up by a small but strong choice of engines, with one CRDI diesel and two petrols available.

It's actually the entry-level 1.2-litre petrol that is the best choice. It's urgent and revs freely, making it ideal for nipping in and out of city streets plus it's more than happy at motorway speeds. Best of all, it is capable of 54.3mpg and works well with the positive five-speed gearbox.