Long-term introduction: Hyundai i20 1,4 Fluid
Although CAR prefers to evaluate volume-selling models because they are of most interest to the majority of new vehicle buyers, manufacturers and importers tend to send us higher-specified test units that showcase all the trimmings and features that their wares can offer.
Thankfully, Hyundai Automotive South Africa, one of the local market’s most successful importers of passenger vehicles, has supplied us with an i20 – a popular buy in the light hatchback segment. Dressed in an eye-catching deep red paint finish, the Russelsheim-styled i20 1,4 Fluid (the only manual-transmission 1,4-litre model in the truncated range’s line-up) offers us an opportunity to appreciate what it is like to live with a prudently specified value-for-money product for 12 months. It will further allow us to judge whether the criticisms we levelled at the model in a recent comparative test, or the lack of a punchy, forced-induction motor, are significant in the car’s everyday applications.
The aesthetic appeal of Hyundai products used to be the preserve of the brand’s family sedans and SUVs; the styling of its light and compact models could best be described as “neat”, but not “attractive”.
This Passion Red i20 is a revelation in that regard, the rich hue of the finish allows the shapely head- and taillamp clusters, as well as the handsome 16-inch alloys, to stand out nicely. The waistline mouldings on the doors and blacked-out C-pillars endow the hatchback with a purposeful stance.
Upon delivery, the Indian-made i20 exhibited excellent build integrity inside and out, which speaks volumes of the lofty standards expected of contemporary B-segment vehicles.
The Hyundai’s doors open and close with pleasing weight and reassuring thunks, the seat trim looks a bit plain, but the weave of the material feels hardwearing, the multi-function steering wheel rim is made of polyurethane, but its finish is not too shiny and the audio system and automatic air-con’s controls feel substantial and are easy to operate. In short, the i20’s cabin exudes a sense of inherent quality and, to its credit, is instantly welcoming.
Peak power and torque outputs of 74 kW and 133 N.m are merely adequate from a contemporary 1,4-litre petrol engine. Therefore, in the cut and thrust of the urban commute, the i20 feels a bit pedestrian.
We’re keen to see if the motor will become more free-revving as the kilometres mount. Nonetheless, when the engine runs at a canter, the Hyundai impresses with low levels of wind and road noise intrusion.
After 1 month
Mileage now: 1 005 km
Fuel consumption: 8,59 L/100 km
We like: good looks, sufficient specification
We don’t like: has proved a trifle thirsty (so far)
