Hyundai i20 Review: The Premium Hatchback Original
The Hyundai i20 has always been about style and features. It was the car that made hatchbacks “cool” in India. The current generation pushes the “Sensuous Sportiness” design language to the max.
📊 Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L NA Kappa / 1.0L Turbo GDi (N-Line) |
| Power (Turbo) | 120 PS |
| Torque (Turbo) | 172 Nm |
| Transmission | 5MT / IVT / 7DCT |
| Safety | 6 Airbags Standard |
🏎️ i20 N-Line: The Hot Hatch(ish)
The i20 N-Line is the closest thing we have to a hot hatch in India today (RIP Polo GT).
- Steering: The N-Line steering wheel (borrowed from the celestial i20 N global model) is tactile and responsive. It weighs up beautifully in corners.
- Performance: The 120 PS motor pulls cleanly. The mid-range punch makes highway overtakes effortless.
- Suspension: It is stiff. You will feel potholes, but the car stays glued to the road at triple-digit speeds.
🛋️ Standard i20 Experience
For the non-enthusiast, the standard i20 with the IVT (CVT) is a blessing.
- Relaxed Drive: The 1.2L engine is super smooth. It’s not fast, but it is stress-free.
- Features: It comes with a 7-speaker Bose sound system that sounds fantastic—bass-heavy and clear, perfect for pop music.
- Sunroof: It’s one of the few hatchbacks to offer a sunroof.
🏁 Verdict
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ N-Line variant offers genuine driving thrills | ❌ Standard 1.2L engine feels underpowered on highway |
| ✅ Bose Sound System is best in class | ❌ Expensive (touches Rs 14 Lakhs on road) |
| ✅ Sharp, distinctive styling | ❌ Fuel efficiency of Turbo DCT is sensitive to driving style |
The Verdict: The i20 is the enthusiast’s choice. If you enjoy driving, get the N-Line. If you want a comfortable family commuter, the Baleno is slightly more practical (softer ride), but the i20 is far more stylish.