Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020) Review
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Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020) Verdict
Functional and spacious interior, good value for money (especially high spec models), long warranty.
Not as fashionable as the latest SEAT Ibiza or Ford Fiesta. Naturally-aspirated petrol engines are slow. Entry-level models are fairly basic.
Find out more about the Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020)
Neatly designed, comfortable, well-equipped and easy to drive, the Hyundai i20 is precisely what most car buyers want. It faces stiff competition from stalwarts like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa but, while it might not do any one thing exceptionally well, it is still a perfectly good alternative to the best sellers.
Designed and built in Europe, the i20 is nicely suited to life on UK roads, with suspension and steering that make it easy to drive on rough British tarmac. It is quiet too, with good sound insulation even when there is a diesel engine under the bonnet. Road noise is well suppressed thanks in part to fairly small wheels – the largest alloys on offer are 16-inch.
Buyers can choose from a 1.2-litre petrol with 75PS or 84PS, plus there is a 1.4-litre petrol with 100PS and from mid-2015 a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol with 100PS or 120PS. Unfortunately the 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre options are getting a little long in the tooth now, needing to be worked hard to deliver useful performance. The turbo engine is a much better choice.
The cabin of the i20 is as well presented as the exterior, with a neat, classy layout and a quality finish. Entry-level models are fairly basic with wind-up windows in the rear, but upper trim grades represent very good value for money with luxuries like cruise control, heated seats, a heated steering wheel and Bluetooth.
Those who want a classy small car can’t go far wrong with the i20. Until the arrival of the 1.0T GDI it may not have offered the best engine range in this class, but there is little else to pick fault with. Build quality is excellent, driving dynamics are relaxed and practicality is good – plus there is a five-year unlimited mileage warranty to give buyers some extra peace-of-mind.
Reviews for Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020)'s top 3 rivals
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Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.0 T-GDi 100 to 1.2
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 33–74 mpg
Initially the petrol line-up in the i20 was limited to three naturally-aspirated engines: a 1.2 with 75PS or 84PS, plus a 1.4 with 100PS. Compared to turbocharged rivals, these felt slow and old-fashioned, requiring working hard to tackle hills or keep up with motorway traffic. They're fine for pottering around town and are fairly efficient according to our Real MPG data.
Buyers looking for a little more performance are betting opting for the 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, introduced in 2016. Available with 100PS or 120PS, the turbocharged unit is quick enough to maintain easy progress on the motorway without hindering fuel economy.
Now axed, the i20 was previously sold with a choice of 75PS 1.1-litre and 90PS 1.4-litre diesel engines. Of these the 1.1-litre is probably the best buy thanks to a decent 180Nm of torque.
Although the majority of i20 engines come with a manual gearbox, the 1.0-litre petrol is available with a DCT automatic transmission. This works well and doesn't hinder fuel economy in the same way as the torque converter transmission used with the old 1.4-litre petrol.
On the road the i20 is a very relaxed, easy-going car. It has been engineered in Europe and it shows, with impressive ride quality over rough, potholed roads and very good refinement. Even diesel models are quiet and subdued thanks to excellent sound proofing.
Despite the comfortable ride quality the i20 has fairly good handling – body roll is kept in check unless changing direction suddenly, plus there is plenty of front end grip. The major controls - steering, pedals and gearchange - are accurate yet effortlessly light. That makes them ideal for a relaxed drive, but less rewarding for those who enjoy a tight B-road - keen drivers will prefer a Ford Fiesta.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 | 63 mpg | 10.7–10.8 s | 107–114 g/km |
| 1.0 T-GDI 100 | 57–63 mpg | 10.7–10.9 s | 99–110 g/km |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 DCT | 57 mpg | 11.4 s | 114 g/km |
| 1.0 T-GDI 120 | 54–59 mpg | 10.2 s | 112 g/km |
| 1.1 CRDi | 71–88 mpg | 16.0 s | 84–103 g/km |
| 1.2 | 69 mpg | 12.1 s | 106 g/km |
| 1.2 75 | 50–60 mpg | 13.6 s | 109–130 g/km |
| 1.2 84 | 50–59 mpg | 12.8–13.1 s | 112–126 g/km |
| 1.4 | 51 mpg | 11.6 s | 127 g/km |
| 1.4 Automatic | 44–46 mpg | 13.2 s | 155 g/km |
| 1.4 CRDi | 69–72 mpg | 12.1 s | 106 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
80%
Real MPG
33–74 mpg
MPGs submitted
232
Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020) interior
- Boot space is 301–1042 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of four stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4035–4065 mm |
| Width | 1730–1880 mm |
| Height | 1449–1529 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm |
While the i20's interior isn't as fashionable as more up-to-date rivals, premium materials mean it feels more upmarket than the likes of the Skoda Fabia.
It's functional, too, with controls easy to find and a seven-inch media system standard across the range - including, impressively, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your phone's features on the move.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, plus there is room for rear-seat passengers to sit in comfort along with two Isofix mounting points for child seats.
Boot space is generous at 326 litres, ahead of the 292 litres in the Ford Fiesta and 280 in the Volkswagen Polo. The boot is well-shaped and has a wide opening, but there is a fairly high load lip, which makes loading and unloading large and heavy items more difficult. It’s a small flaw though – the i20 is otherwise one of the most practical cars in its class.
While the i20 is relatively cheap in entry-level S Connect form, most buyers will want to upgrade to a higher-spec model where equipment levels are more generous.
Standard Equipment:
S Connect features 15-inch steel wheels, body-coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators, cloth seats, 60:40 split folding rear seats, manual air conditioning, automatic headlights, tinted glass, heated door mirrors, electric front windows, seven-inch touchscreen audio display with rear view camera and smart device integration, Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, DAB radio, steering wheel audio and phone controls, ISOFIX rear child seat anchorage points.
SE adds 15-inch alloy wheels, leather wrapped gear knob and steering wheel, LED daytime running lights, front fog lights, high beam assist, cruise control with speed limiter, electric front and rear windows, rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking, driver attention alert, lane keep assist.
Play features 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, black gloss door mirrors and touchscreen navigation.
Premium Nav comes with black side body mouldings, automatic dimming rear view mirror, automatic windscreen wipers, climate control, LED rear lights, front arm rest, power folding door mirrors, luggage net, front and rear parking sensors, variable height boot floor, height adjustable front seat belts, tyre pressure monitoring system.
Premium SE Nav tops the range, with chrome effect door handles, grey radiator grille, heated front seats, panoramic glass sunroof, heated steering wheel, keyless entry with engine stop/start button.
Hyundai i20 (2015 – 2020) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4035–4065 mm |
| Width | 1730–1880 mm |
| Height | 1449–1529 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 980–1280 kg |
| Boot Space | 301–1042 L |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Servicing | 10000–20000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £10,995–£18,260 |
| Insurance Groups | 4–11 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–G |
| Official MPG | 44.1–88.3 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 4 |
On sale until April 2021
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps Play 5dr | - | - | 10.8 s |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps Premium Nav 5dr | - | 56.5 mpg | 10.7 s |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps Premium Nav DCT 5dr | - | 56.5 mpg | 11.4 s |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps SE 5dr | - | 56.5 mpg | 10.7 s |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps SE DCT 5dr | - | 56.5 mpg | 11.4 s |
| 1.0 T-GDi 120ps Premium SE Nav 5dr | - | 54.3 mpg | 10.2 s |
| 1.2 75ps S Connect 5dr | - | - | 13.6 s |
| 1.2 84ps Play 5dr | - | - | 12.8 s |
| 1.2 84ps Premium Nav 5dr | - | 50.4 mpg | 12.8 s |
| 1.2 84ps Premium SE Nav 5dr | - | 50.4 mpg | 12.8 s |
| 1.2 84ps SE 5dr | - | 51.4 mpg | 12.8 s |
On sale until July 2019
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps Premium Nav 3dr | £16,415 | 62.8 mpg | 10.7 s |
| 1.2 84ps Premium Nav 3dr | £15,415 | 55.4 mpg | 12.8 s |
On sale until April 2019
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100ps Active 5dr | £16,120 | 58.9 mpg | 10.9 s |
| 1.2 84ps GO Edition 5dr | £11,385 | 58.9 mpg | 12.8 s |
| 1.2 84ps GO SE 5dr | £14,510 | 58.9 mpg | 12.8 s |
On sale until January 2019
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.2 75ps S Air 5dr | £12,660 | 55.4 mpg | 13.6 s |
| 1.2 75ps S Connect 5dr | £13,995 | 49.6 mpg | 13.6 s |
| 1.4 100ps Premium Nav Auto 5dr | £16,915 | 44.1 mpg | 13.2 s |
| 1.4 100ps Premium SE Nav Auto 5dr | £17,915 | 44.1 mpg | 13.2 s |
| 1.4 100ps SE Auto 5dr | £15,515 | 45.6 mpg | 13.2 s |
On sale until July 2018
On sale until October 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.1 CRDi SE 75 5dr | £14,525 | 70.6 mpg | 16.0 s |
| 1.2 S Air Blue Drive 75 5dr | £11,745 | 60.1 mpg | 13.6 s |
| 1.4 Premium 100 5dr | £14,625 | 51.4 mpg | 11.6 s |
| 1.4 Premium Nav 100 5dr | £15,300 | 51.4 mpg | 11.6 s |
| 1.4 Premium SE 100 5dr | £15,625 | 51.4 mpg | 11.6 s |
| 1.4 Premium SE Nav 100 5dr | £16,300 | 51.4 mpg | 11.6 s |
| 1.4 SE 100 5dr | £13,625 | 51.4 mpg | 11.6 s |
Model History
- August 2014: Hyundai unveils new i20
- February 2018: Hyundai i20 Go SE launched
- June 2018: Revised i20 goes on sale
- January 0001: 5 Door
- April 2019: Hyundai i20 Play special edition announced
August 2014
Hyundai unveils new i20
The new generation i20 has been designed and developed in Europe, and three key attributes in particular underline how it meets the needs of European consumers: class-leading interior space, a host of high-technology and comfort-enhancing features, and distinctive, refined design.
Based on a new platform, new i20 features a 2570 mm wheelbase – 45 mm longer than its predecessor – providing European customers with one of the most spacious cabins in the segment. Efficient packaging has created a passenger compartment that can comfortably seat five adults. Combined front and rear legroom is best in class at 1892 mm. Boot capacity is also segment-leading: 326 litres when the rear seats are upright.
Enhancing the comfort and the sense of space for driver and passengers is a unique-in-class panoramic sunroof. Able to both tilt and fully open, it fills the cabin with natural light and fresh air. Further features add to the refinement and convenience, including integrated rear-view camera and front and rear LED lighting.
The boot volume has increased by 10% to a class-leading 326 litres (previously 295 litres) with the rear seats upright.
The petrol engines include the 1.25-litre ‘Kappa’ four-cylinder in low power (75PS) or high-power (84PS) form. This all-aluminium unit receives a five-speed manual transmission as standard. Alternatively, there is a 1.4-litre four-cylinder 100PS unit. The more powerful engine can be mated to a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.
| Power (ps) | Torque (Nm) | |
| 1.25-litre (low) | 75 @ 5500 rpm | 122 @ 4000 rpm |
| 1.25-litre (high) | 84 @ 6000 rpm | 122 @ 4000 rpm |
| 1.4-litre | 100 @ 6000 rpm | 134 @ 3500 rpm |
Outstanding features of the Kappa engine’s modern architecture include dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), a very stiff cast aluminium block with cast iron liners, aluminium cylinder head, lighter connecting rods and maintenance-free long-life timing chain.
There are two diesel - a 75PS, 1.1-litre engine or the 90PS 1.4-litre. Both engines are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.
| Power (ps) | Torque (Nm) | |
| 1.1-litre | 75 @ 4000 rpm | 180 @ 1750 – 2500 rpm |
| 1.4-litre | 90 @ 4000rpm | 240 @ 1500 – 2500 rpm |
Customers of diesel variants of new i20 will notice a reduction in noise thanks to the addition of rubber-coated sprockets, providing a decent improvement over the outgoing model. Both the five-and six-speed manual transmissions fitted to the New Generation i20 have been extensively tested to deliver a smoother, quieter and more tactile shift.
February 2018
Hyundai i20 Go SE launched
Available from £14,355, the i20 Go! SE 1.2 84PS 5 speed manual is again only a £495 premium over the i20 SE 5 door but brings equipment enhancements including a new design 15-inch alloy wheel, gloss black door mirrors, privacy glass, black side body mouldings, projection headlamps, LED daytime running lamps and 1.0 T-GDi style radiator grille.
Interior additions for the i20 Go! SE includes 7-inch touchscreen navigation, black headlining, Go! SE cloth upholstery and centre console armrest. Additional equipment includes automatic headlamps and rain sensing wipers and an auto dimming rear view mirror. The i20 Go SE! is available in 4 body colours, Champion Blue (metallic), Stardust Grey (metallic), Phantom Black (pearl) and Polar White (solid).
June 2018
Revised i20 goes on sale
The new i20 introduces a number of new connectivity and safety features to the range as well as exterior updates which include the introduction of the Hyundai family’s Cascading Grille, redesigned front and rear bumpers, new front fog lamps and a new design tailgate with new tail lamps.
All New i20’s will now benefit as standard from a 7-inch display audio with DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear view camera, Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel controls and automatic headlamps. In addition, the i20 5 door now features standard safety equipment such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert and High Beam Assist featuring on all models from the SE trim upwards.
Efficiency is improved with the introduction of a 7 speed dual clutch transmission on the 1.0 T-GDi 100PS engine, which replaces the automatic transmission of the previous model. Intelligent Stop and Go features across the range, with Michelin low rolling resistance tyres available on all models fitted with 15” and 16” wheels.
Prices for the i20 S 5 door 1.2 75PS 5 speed manual will start from £13,995. The new specification includes 7-inch display audio including DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear view camera, manual air conditioning, USB charger, Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel controls, rear door speakers and automatic headlights. Remote central locking, electric front windows and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors are amongst the key specification carried over from the previous model.
From £15,495, the i20 SE 5 door 1.2 84PS 5 speed manual builds on the S trim level by offering customers additional equipment including a new design for the 15” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, LED daytime running lamps, projector headlamps, rear parking sensors, cruise control with speed limiter function and electric rear windows. Trim additions include a leather steering wheel and gear knob. New i20 SE also introduces Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert and High Beam Assist. It is available with the 1.0 T-GDi 100PS engine, with either a 5 speed manual transmission or the 7 speed dual clutch transmission.
Raising the specification further, the i20 Premium Nav 5 door starts at £16,245 for the 1.2 84PS 5 speed manual. Premium Nav trim includes new design 16” alloy wheels, dark grey front grille, LED rear lamps, front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, climate control, privacy glass, power folding mirrors, 7” Touchscreen Navigation with DAB radio, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, automatic wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror and front centre arm rest. The New i20 Premium Nav is available with the 1.0 T-GDi 100PS engine, with either a 5 speed manual transmission or the 7 speed dual clutch transmission.
The top of the range i20 Premium Nav SE 5 door enters the range at £17,295 for the 1.2 84PS 5 speed manual, adding smart key with push button engine start/stop, panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel to the Premium Nav specification. New i20 Premium Nav SE is also available with the 1.0 T-GDi 120PS engine and a 6 speed manual transmission.
New i20 is available in a choice of 8 colours. Tomato Red - a new colour to the range - joins Polar White as solid finish, no cost options. Clean Slate and Champion Blue - also new to the range - join existing colours Phantom Black, Sleek Silver, Stardust Grey and Passion Red. These are all metallic or pearl paint finishes and cost £550.
|
Model January 00015 Door |
Fuel Type |
CO2 Emissions (g/km) |
Recommended On The Road Price |
|
S 1.2 75PS 5DR – 5 speed manual |
Petrol |
130 |
£13,995.00 |
|
SE 1.2 84PS 5DR – 5 speed manual |
Petrol |
126 |
£15,495.00 |
|
SE 1.0 T-GDi 100PS 5DR – 5 speed manual |
Petrol |
114 |
£16,395.00 |
|
SE 1.0 T-GDi 100PS 5DR – 7 speed DCT |
Petrol |
114 |
£17,645.00 |
|
Premium Nav 1.2 84PS 5DR – 5 speed manual |
Petrol |
127 |
£16,245.00 |
|
Premium Nav T-GDi 100PS 5DR – 5 speed manual |
Petrol |
115 |
£17,145.00 |
|
Premium Nav T-GDi 100PS 5DR – 7 speed DCT |
Petrol |
114 |
£18,395.00 |
|
Premium Nav SE 1.2 84PS 5DR – 5 speed manual |
Petrol |
127 |
£17,295.00 |
|
Premium Nav SE T-GDi 120PS 5DR – 6 speed manual |
Petrol |
118 |
£18,645.00 |
April 2019
Hyundai i20 Play special edition announced
Available from £14,495, the i20 Play is priced £1000 less than the i20 SE and includes specification from higher in the range, including 16-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, 7-inch touchscreen navigation system with DAB, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, black gloss door mirror covers and unique Play badging. The i20 Play is available with the 1.2 MPI 84PS 5 speed manual or the 1.0 T-GDi 100PS 5 speed manual.
All i20 PLAY models come standard in a two tone paint finish, with pearl finish Phantom Black roof to complement the body colour. Five colours are available: Tomato Red or Polar White as solid, no cost options, Champion Blue, Stardust Grey or Clean Slate as metallic options for £550.
What to watch out for
High oil consumption of 1 litre per 1000 miles reported on April 2016 Hyundai i20 (engine not mentioned).
28-06-2017:Report of "flat spot between 1st and 2nd gear and slight hesitation/power loss intermittently." on 2016 Hyundai i20 at 12k miles. Dealer repladed clutch under warranty (oil seal leak). Car seemed ok for a few days after that but the symptons started again. Owner took the car back but dealer couldn't find any fault after a road test. After trying some fuel cleaner and a few tanks of VPower the symptoms still persist and the hesitation / judder is more or less constant throughout the gears. This is more noticeable on slight increase of acceleration. At high motorway speeds the car seems fine though.
26-10-2018:Report of clutch juddering in 1st and reverse gear in 2016 Hyundai i20 at 26,600 miles. Happens when setting off then settles down. Clutch already replaced twos. First time at 8k miles due to a failed cranksahft end seal. Then at 17k miles in January 2018 because of judder. Dealer found high thin high spots all over flywheel, and clutch cover slight high spot round marks indicating clutch discs/clutch cover not engaging properly. Required new flywheel and clutch kit. They replaced clutch cover, disc, flywheel, bolts and release bearing. Owner now worried that same could be happening again.
22-02-2019:Report of corroded brake discs, front and rear, on 2016 Hyundai i20.
31-07-2019:Report of 2017 Hyundai i20 suffering hailstone damage to its roof. The cars parked alongside were undamaged, so owner saw this as a weakness.
30-01-2020:Report of failure of clutch of August 2019 Hyundai i20. Clutch slipping soon after delivery and Hyundai and dealer eventually agreed to clutch and flywheel replacement. Problem has now reappeared at 3000 miles.
