Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018) Review
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018) Verdict
Good range of efficient chain cam engines. Cheap to run. Good visibility. Easy to get in and out of. Plenty of rear passenger and boot space. Attractively facelifted for 2016 model year with newer engines and transmissions.
Similar Kia Venga has a longer warranty. Not a sporty handler. Generally older generation petrol engines.
Find out more about the Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018)
Insurance Groups are between 7–14
On average it achieves 80% of the official MPG figure
Over recent years Hyundai has been producing some high quality cars and this continues with the ix20. The mini-MPV is Hyundai's version of the Kia Venga and is even built at the same factory. Like the Kia, the ix20 is a high value proposition that offers generous standard equipment levels, a high quality interior and low running costs thanks to efficient engines.
One of the key factors that separates Hyundai's ix20 from the similar Kia Venga is that every car gets Hyundai's 'Five Year Triple Care' package, which includes not only a five year/unlimited mileage manufacturer's warranty and five years roadside assistance but also five years of vehicle health checks - a very impressive deal.
The ix20 is also good to drive with a very forgiving ride that copes well with four people and their luggage and little road or wind noise at higher speeds. The suspension has been tuned specifically for the poor quality of many UK roads and this shows behind the wheel where it handles well but is also very comfortable and composed.
The efficient engine range includes two petrols - a 1.4-litre and a 1.6-litre (the latter comes as an automatic only) along with an impressive 1.4 CRDi. Like the 1.4-litre petrol it's fitted with Hyundai's Integrated Stop/Start (ISG) technology which cuts the engine when stationary. As a result it emits a low 114g/km of CO2 while claimed fuel economy is 65.7mpg on the official combined cycle.
The quality feel is evident in the spacious cabin where there's plenty of space for five on board and their luggage too thanks to a large boot with extra underfloor storage. Equipment levels are good too while top models come with a neat panoramic glass sunroof which not only makes the cabin feel very light and airy but also slides open unlike many other similar roofs.
Road Test near identical Kia Venga: Kia Venga 2010 Road Test
Reviews for Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.4 to 1.6
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 28–60 mpg
Three engines are offered in the ix20 line-up and all are impressively efficient. The new common-rail 1.4 CRDi diesel with 90bhp is expected to be a popular choice and thats easy to see why as it's smooth, quiet yet delivers punchy performance when you need it. More than 90 per cent of the maximum torque of 200Nm is available from just 1500rpm, allowing you to accelerate from a standstill in a smooth manner. It also means the engine doesn't have to be worked hard, which helps with efficiency and noise levels.
At 70mph it's very quiet, so much so that it's easy to think you are in a petrol car, yet it still pulls strongly in gear for easy overtaking. Fitted with Integrated Stop/Start (ISG) technology and the standard six-speed manual gearbox with its positive and nicely weighted shift, the CRDi version of ix20 has CO2 emissions of just 114g/km and claimed fuel economy of 65.7mpg on the official combined cycle. These impressive figures mean cheap car tax rates as it sits in band C for VED. Thanks to the fact it has a chain-driven timing system, owners also benefit from extended 20,000 mile service intervals.
Other features designed to improve efficiency include a power-saving alternator management system, a gear-shift up/down indicator to encourage an economical driving style plus Continental low-rolling-resistance tyres.
The entry-level 1.4-litre 90bhp petrol option is borrowed from the i20 range and is also likely to be a big seller. Like the diesel, this version has the ISG system, resulting in emissions of just 130g/km and claimed average economy of 50.4mpg. The final engne is the 1.6-litre petrol that's also used in the Hyundai i30 and is the only model available with an automatic transmission in the form of a four-speed auto.
The ix20 is the first car in Hyundai's history that has been extensively tested on the worst of British roads to make sure it can provide both a supple ride and driving enjoyment. The results are certainly successful. It's a very comfortable car to travel in with little wind or road noise and it handles very tidily too. The steering is well weighted and has a reasonable amount of feel, plus it's responsive when you turn into corners. There is a little bit of roll in corners - this is a people carrier after all - but the ix20 still feels very composed and reassuring to drive. The steering is light at low speeds, so parking manouevres and three-point turns are a doddle, plus there's good all round visibility.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 | 47–50 mpg | 12.8–12.9 s | 130–140 g/km |
| 1.4 CRDi | 63–66 mpg | 14.4–14.5 s | 114–119 g/km |
| 1.6 | 44 mpg | 10.8 s | 149 g/km |
| 1.6 Automatic | 41–44 mpg | 11.5–12.2 s | 150–154 g/km |
| 1.6 CRDi | 64 mpg | - | 115 g/km |
| 1.6 CRDi Blue Drive | 64 mpg | 11.4–11.5 s | 115–117 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018)
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
28–60 mpg
MPGs submitted
378
Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 440–1486 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4100–4120 mm |
| Width | 1765 mm |
| Height | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2615 mm |
The ix20 shows just how far Hyundai has come in the recent times. The stylish layout and high quality finish are mightily impressive and this feels like a genuinely upmarket small MPV. It's very roomy too with plenty of legroom for all passengers on board, plus the ability to carry three across the rear seats thanks to good width and a flat floor. As you'd expect given the taller shape, headroom is generous and even those over six-foot will find the back airy and spacious.
Getting in and out is easy thanks to raised seats and low sills, while the higher driving position ensures a good view out which is useful at junctions. There's height and reach adjustment in the steering column and the remote-control switches on the wheel mean you can control various functions (such as the stereo) without having to take your eyes off the road.
The instrument cluster is illuminated in Hyundai's trademark soft blue lighting which also features on all the switches and controls, adding to the stylish and sophisticated feel. The air conditioning control dial looks great and the stereo system is very user-friendly too.
As you'd expect from a people carrier, practicality is a strong point for the ix20. In the front there's decent storage options including large door pockets but it's the boot which is most impressive - especially so for a car that's barely over four metres long. Not only is it spacious, there's no load lip thanks to a raised floor which also hides plenty of extra storage underneath.
As with the Kia Venga, the ix20 uses the latest active and passive safety technologies, such as ESP, ABS and Hillstart Assist Control to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Hyundai anticipates this will become the first small MPV to attain the maximum five-star result under Euro NCAP's impact assessment program.
Standard equipment from launch (November 2010):
Classic models are well-equipped and feature a height adjustable driver's seat, ESP stability control, air conditioning, six airbags, steel wheels, active head restraints, electric front windows, air conditioning, a CD stereo system with six speakers, plus USB, AUX and iPod-input capabilities.
Active is expected to be the most popular trim choice and comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, body coloured door handles and mirrors (which are electrically adjustable and heated), reversing sensors, Bluetooth phone connectivity, electric rear windows and audio controls on the leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Style versions have, front fog lights are standard, door mirrors fitted with integrated side repeater indicators that fold electrically and a dual-panel panoramic glass sunroof with a UV filter that spans the front and rear seats. The front panel offers tilt and sliding function to let the fresh air - as well as light - into the cabin. It's also equipped with blinds while the rear glass is super-darkened for extra privacy and protection from the sun.
Hyundai ix20 (2010 – 2018) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4100–4120 mm |
| Width | 1765 mm |
| Height | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2615 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1267–1380 kg |
| Boot Space | 440–1486 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000–20000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £15,450–£19,200 |
| Insurance Groups | 7–14 |
| Road Tax Bands | C–G |
| Official MPG | 40.9–65.7 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
Currently on sale
| Small MPV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 Premium Nav 5dr | £17,250 | 50.4 mpg | - |
| 1.4 SE BlueDrive 5dr | £15,450 | 50.4 mpg | 12.8 s |
| 1.4 SE Nav BlueDrive 5dr | £16,300 | 50.4 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi Premium Nav BlueDrive 5dr | £19,040 | 64.2 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi SE BlueDrive 5dr | £17,240 | 64.2 mpg | 11.4 s |
| 1.6 CRDi SE Nav BlueDrive 5dr | £18,090 | 64.2 mpg | - |
| 1.6 Premium Nav 5dr | £17,550 | 43.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| 1.6 Premium Nav Auto 5dr | £19,200 | 40.9 mpg | 11.5 s |
| 1.6 SE 5dr | £15,750 | 43.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| 1.6 SE Auto 5dr | £17,400 | 40.9 mpg | 11.5 s |
| 1.6 SE Nav 5dr | £16,600 | 43.5 mpg | 10.8 s |
| 1.6 SE Nav Auto 5dr | £18,250 | 40.9 mpg | 11.5 s |
On sale until April 2017
| Small MPV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 Premium 5dr | £15,095 | 50.4 mpg | 12.8 s |
| 1.4 Premium Nav 5dr | £16,335 | 50.4 mpg | - |
| 1.4 SE Nav BlueDrive 5dr | £15,385 | 50.4 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi Premium BlueDrive 5dr | £16,845 | 64.2 mpg | 11.4 s |
| 1.6 CRDi Premium Nav BlueDrive 5dr | £18,085 | 64.2 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi SE Nav BlueDrive 5dr | £17,135 | 64.2 mpg | - |
| 1.6 Premium Auto 5dr | £16,495 | 43.5 mpg | 11.5 s |
| 1.6 Premium Nav Auto 5dr | £17,840 | 43.5 mpg | - |
| 1.6 SE Nav Auto 5dr | £16,890 | 43.5 mpg | - |
On sale until October 2015
| MPV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 Active 89 5dr | £13,665 | 47.1 mpg | 12.9 s |
| 1.4 Classic 89 5dr | £12,515 | 47.1 mpg | 12.9 s |
| 1.4 CRDi Classic 89 5dr | £13,835 | 62.8 mpg | 14.4 s |
| 1.4 Style 89 5dr | £14,615 | 47.1 mpg | 12.9 s |
| 1.6 Active 123 Auto 5dr | £15,010 | 43.6 mpg | 12.2 s |
| 1.6 CRDi Active Blue Drive 115 5dr | £15,385 | 64.2 mpg | 11.5 s |
| 1.6 CRDi Style Blue Drive 115 5dr | £16,335 | 64.2 mpg | 11.5 s |
| 1.6 Style 123 Auto 5dr | £15,960 | 43.6 mpg | 12.2 s |
On sale until October 2011
| People Carrier | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 CRDi Active 5dr | £14,445 | 65.7 mpg | 14.5 s |
| 1.4 CRDi Style 5dr | £15,445 | 65.7 mpg | 14.5 s |
Model History
October 2010
Hyundai announces prices for the ix20. Available with three drivetrain options and three generously equipped trim levels. The three trim grades – Classic, Active and Style – are unique to the UK and have been carefully created to reflect the demands and high expectations of British buyers.
The entry level Classic trim provides all of the safety equipment that the customer wants, but wouldn’t expect at this level. The well-equipped interior features a height adjustable driver’s seat, ESP, air conditioning, six airbags, active head restraints, radio/CD audio system with six speakers, plus CD, MP3, RDS and USB-/AUX-/iPOD-input capabilities.
Classic prices start at £11,595 for 1.4 petrol and £12,995 for the 1.4 diesel.
The next trim level is the mid-range Active. In addition to the Classic specification it gains 16-inch alloy wheels, body coloured door handles and mirrors (which are electrically adjustable and heated) and reversing sensors. Inside, convenience comes in the form of Bluetooth phone connectivity, electric rear windows and audio controls on the leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Active begins at £12,695 for the 1.4-litre petrol, £14,095 for the diesel and £14,095 for the 1.6-litre petrol auto.
Range-topping Style specification adds a dual-panel panoramic glass sunroof with UV filter, which spans the front and rear seats. The front panel offers a tilt and sliding function to let the fresh air – as well as light – into the cabin. The price is £13,695 for the 1.4 petrol and £15,095 for the 1.4 diesel or 1.6 petrol automatic. The sunroof is equipped with blinds and the rear glass is super-darkened for extra privacy and protection from the sun. Front fog lights are standard and the door mirrors are fitted with integrated side repeater indicators. To keep these safe on narrower roads, they fold electrically. The only factory-fit extra is metallic paint at £395.
October 2010
Hyundai launched ix20
The production of the ix20 got under way at Hyundai’s newest European plant in Nošovice, Czech Republic. Like the Kia Venga, the 4,100 mm-long car features an unusually long wheelbase for its class (2615mm) and a 1600mm high roofline.
Fluidic design theme continues inside, with neat styling touches reflecting the dynamic flow of the exterior. Hyundai’s European designers have also sculpted the interior space to provide extra legroom and headroom for superior comfort, while accommodating ample luggage and raising equipment specifications.
Hyundai ix20 available with a choice of four Euro V-compliant engines: two petrol and two diesels, covering a power spread from 77bhp to 125bhp. Manual and automatic transmissions will also be offered. Every engine in the ix20 range (except 1.6 with automatic transmission) will also be available in Blue Drive form, which includes Integrated Stop & Go (ISG) technology, low rolling-resistance tyres and an alternator management system (AMS). Blue Drive versions of the ix20 give class-leading CO2 emissions levels from just 114g/km (1.4-litre U2 diesel engine).
Hyundai ix20 uses the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Active safety features, fitted as standard in several countries, include ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ABS (anti-lock braking system) and Hillstart Assist Control (to prevent roll-back when starting on an incline). Hyundai anticipates the ix20 will continue the company’s excellent safety record and become the first B-segment MPV to attain the maximum 5-Star result under Euro NCAP’s impact assessment.
March 2011
Hyundai suggests that the ix20 may get a new turbocharged 1.2 T-GDI Kappa engine. This unit is not yet confirmed for application in a production vehicle, but would be well suited to a B / C segment car. Key facts: Displacement 1.248cc 4-cylinder, T-GDI, DOHC 16v Direct injection CO2 emissions less than 110 g/km.
February 2012
Hyundai started offering the ix20 with the 1.6 CRDi diesel engine.
March 2015
Facelifted for 2016 with much more attractive front grille. Also got projector headlights, a set of modified LED taillights and new 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels. Connectivity improved with integrated My Music with 1 GB storage, the USB, AUX, Bluetooth connectivity, the new generation of the audio system with iPod connectivity and several other tweaks.
Choice of two petrol and two diesel engines: 1.4 90PS and 1.6 125PS petrol. 1.6 offered with new 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Diesels are 1.4 77PS or 90PS, which the 1.6 develops 115PS or 128PS, all with 6-speed manual transmissions.
UK gets 1.4 litre Blue Drive 90PS petrol engine. Both SE Nav and Premium Nav trims feature a more powerful 1.6 CRDi 115PS Blue Drive engine or a 1.6 litre petrol with 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission that replaces the previous 4-speed torque converter auto.
OTR Prices from £14,195. 1.6 125PS petrol auto from £15,595. 1.6 CRDI 115 from £15,945.
What to watch out for
One complaint of condensation inside the headlights.
16-08-2012:11 Reg Hyundai iX20 1.4 CRDi Style with 8,500 miles. R ear brake caliper jammed in the 'handbrake on' position. Car taken to Benfield Hyundai, Newcastle on 8-8-2012 but told calipers and discs on back-order, to arrive 14th September.
20-08-2012:Hyundai UK confirmed there had been a problem of delays in receiving parts from Korea generally, but that this is now resolved and stock levles should be restored by the first week of September 2012.
28-11-2012:Failed 'Programmable Control Module' for 1.4 diesel led to a wait of at least 7 weeks for the part.
10-08-2013:Cracks reported between the treads of all four Continental 205/55 SR15 tyres of a 9,700 miles 2011/11 ix20 1.4 CRDi.
10-06-2014:Problems with a Hyundai ix20 1.4 CRDi Blue Drive. Started losing power. Injectors replaced. Now turbo does not kick in until 2,300rpm, making 'eco driving' impossible.
24-07-2014:2010-2014 Hyundai ix20 diesel least reliable new car in 2014 Which? Car Survey with reliability rating of 75.2%.
05-11-2016:Report of vibration from engine of 42,000 mile 2012 Hyundai ix20 1.6CRDI at between 1,600 and 1,800rpm when pulling hard, uphill in 3rd, 4th, 5th or 6th gear. May be 'diesel knock', curable by rnning on superdiesel such as Shell V-Power. Or may be turbo bearing wear due to turbo oil feed and oil return pipes being artially blocked with carbon. "The culprit was the balance weights within the springs of the clutch plate. Once the clutch was replaced the noise disappeared. On the plus side, the engine seems a lot smoother, as does the gear change and seems to have a better mpg, though it may be the warm weather."
12-12-2016:Report of poor starting of 2011 Hyundai ix20 1,4CRDI when ambient tremperatrure below 3C.
06-02-2017:Report of known problem with clutches. April 2016 ix20 facelift model went in for first service at 10k miles. Owner mentioend slight juddering after clutch release on take off. Dealer told him to bring the car back for a new clutch under warranty. "Open TSB fitted new clutch cover and disc." "The culprit was the balance weights within the springs of the clutch plate. Once the clutch was replaced the noise disappeared. On the plus side, the engine seems a lot smoother, as does the gear change and seems to have a better mpg, though it may be the warm weather."
31-07-2017:Owner quoted £370 by the dealer for a replacement remote key for his Hyundai ix20.
17-08-2017:Voice operated Bluetooth system on the current ix20 is not fully compatible with an iPhone 7.
21-02-2018:Report of driver's side front quarterlight of 2012 Hyundai ix20 coming loose at 51,000 miles.
02-05-2018:Report of engine failure of June 2018 Hyundai ix20 at 9,500 miles after running completely dry of oil. Manual says car is fitted with an engine oil level and oil pressure light. Neither warned the driver of low oil level. Car now needs a new engine and owner is in dispute with the supplying dealer.
16-09-2019:Report of failure of ABS module of 2002 Hyundai ix20 due to moisture ingress. This must be due to failure to change the brake fluid after the first 3 years then every 2 years thereafter. Moisture corrodes the delicate components inside the ABS/ESP module.
