Hyundai's newest i10 had impressed me when launched and tested with its fresh looks and ample equipment and at the time seemed streets ahead of its larger siblings in the showroom. Catch up they did though and the important new i20 supermini, which has to challenge a host of other brilliant cars in this segment is simply the best Hyundai I ever tested.
The all-new model is a big departure from the outgoing i20 in terms of design, practicality and desirability. Visually, the newcomer is very different with a welcome dose of style. The new model's sharp lines, floating C-pillar, and swooping bonnet give a more sophisticated look than before. A wide grille, LED daytime running lights and a full-length panoramic roof have also been fitted.
The growth spurt is down to the all-new platform the i20 has adopted. It's longer, lower and wider than before, with a wheelbase that has increased by nearly 5cm providing more space inside for passengers.
What's not so new is the engine range. All of the i20's units have been carried over from its predecessor, albeit with minor efficiency tweaks to bring them in line with Euro VI emissions regulations.
I tried the 1.2-litre petrol engine and although performance is nothing to get excited about the car is a joy to drive. The ride is generally very good, a bit bumpy around some of our bad roads but on better surfaces is comfortable and settled, not surprising considering 'comfort-enhancing features' were one of Hyundai's focal points when developing the new model. The steering is nicely weighted and responsive too and gear change is superb.
When it comes to more practical matters Hyundai has delivered on its promise of providing class-leading interior space, as the new model is now the largest supermini on the market. Whether in the front or rear, there's masses of headroom, and with the extra inch that has been added to the width of the car three adults can sit pretty comfortably in the back.
Big improvements have been made inside, where the i20 now comes close to matching pricier competitors for slick design and upmarket appeal. The dashboard is neatly designed and well laid out and there's a large speedo and rev counter, plus the major switchgear is logically sited although some of the minor switches are lower down on a panel by the driver's right knee. Interior switchgear lighting is a cool blue throughout, a welcome difference. The fit and finish looks well made and inviting with good quality materials used throughout. The top of the dashboard is trimmed in soft-touch plastic, the chunky three-spoke steering wheel gets a soft leather covering and the seats are upholstered in durable fabrics. Elsewhere, bright contrasting coloured panels for the dash and door, similar to the i10's, gives the cabin a wider appeal. Bluetooth phone connection and a multifunction steering wheel are all now standard, including big-car additions such as lane departure warning and cruise control on higher trim levels. Every i20 also comes fitted with six airbags, stability control and emergency stop signal. The lane departure warning is quite a novelty feature and I couldn't help myself trying to outwit and anticipating it, while the headlamps also illuminate the direction the driver turns to aid visibility.
A 326-litre boot is 31 litres larger than before and one of the most spacious in its class. The clever packaging also means the rear seats can be folded completely flat, freeing up 1,042 litres. Build quality is strong, and the list of equipment is pretty impressive but lacks an integrated touchscreen and navigation system, which supermini buyers have become accustomed to. I have read that Hyundai will be offering a factory-fitted option on Premium and Premium SE models at some point this year.
As a class first, Hyundai has also introduced a full-length panoramic roof on the i20. I had this option on the test car and I it really raises the bar of sophistication and headroom, given the amount of space on offer, is still ample.
This latest i20 is definitely worth considering if looking for a car in the supermini class. I enjoyed every minute of it and although looks are not the total package it certainly catches one's attention.