Hyundai i20
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small car that punches above its weight? The Hyundai i20 could be the perfect match for your needs. This well-rounded supermini combines practical everyday usability with surprising style and modern technology. It’s designed for drivers who want more from their small car without breaking the bank. The i20 offers that sweet spot between affordability and quality that many buyers are searching for.

From the outside, the i20 stands out with its bold, contemporary design that looks more expensive than its price tag suggests. It competes directly with popular rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, but brings its own Korean flair to the mix. Inside, you’ll find a surprisingly spacious cabin with modern tech features and solid build quality. The materials feel robust and the layout is intuitive, making every journey more comfortable.

The i20 delivers where it matters most for daily driving. It’s economical to run, comfortable on longer trips, and nimble enough for city streets and tight parking spaces. While it may not have the premium badge of some competitors, it offers excellent value for money and comes with Hyundai’s impressive warranty package. If you’re after a dependable, well-equipped small car that won’t let you down, the i20 deserves serious consideration.

What's the Hyundai I20 Like to Drive?

The Hyundai i20 offers a choice of efficient petrol engines that prioritise economy over outright performance. The entry-level 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo produces around 100 horsepower, which feels perfectly adequate for most driving situations. It’s responsive around town and has enough grunt for confident overtaking on A-roads. For those wanting more power, the 1.2-litre mild-hybrid unit delivers smoother acceleration and improved fuel economy. Both engines are paired with either a five-speed manual or optional automatic transmission.

On the road, the i20 feels composed and mature. The steering is light at parking speeds but gains weight as you pick up pace, giving you confidence on faster roads. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and control. It absorbs most bumps and potholes without fuss, though larger imperfections can unsettle the ride slightly. This compact hatchback handles predictably and safely, making it an easy car to drive every day. The brakes are progressive and the visibility is excellent all around.

Hyundai I20 Interior, Tech & Comfort Review

Step inside the i20 and you’ll find a well-designed cabin that feels more premium than the price suggests. The dashboard layout is clean and logical, with physical buttons for the climate control that are easy to use while driving. The central touchscreen is responsive and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across the range. Material quality is impressive for this class, with soft-touch surfaces where your hands naturally fall. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with good adjustment range to help you find the ideal driving position.

Space inside is generous for a car this size. Front passengers get plenty of head and legroom, while the rear seats can accommodate adults on shorter journeys without complaint. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, creating a peaceful environment for both driver and passengers. The air conditioning works effectively and the heating system warms up quickly in winter. Higher trim levels add features like heated seats, a larger touchscreen, and ambient lighting that enhance the premium feel even further.

The Hyundai i20 is a well-rounded small car that delivers on its promises without any major surprises. It successfully combines good build quality, practical packaging, and efficient running costs in an attractive package. The interior is genuinely impressive for the class, feeling more expensive than it actually is. On the road, it’s refined and easy to drive, making every journey comfortable and stress-free.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Hyundai I20?

The Hyundai i20 shines when it comes to running costs, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers. Fuel economy is excellent across the range, with real-world figures typically achieving between 45-55 mpg depending on your driving style. The mild-hybrid models deliver even better efficiency, helping to keep your fuel bills low. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically ranging from group 8-12, which means affordable premiums for most drivers.

Purchase prices are competitive, starting from around £18,000 for a basic model and rising to £25,000 for top-spec versions. This represents good value compared to premium rivals, though it’s slightly more expensive than some mainstream alternatives. car finance options are widely available, making monthly payments manageable for most budgets. Hyundai’s five-year warranty is a significant advantage, providing peace of mind and potentially reducing repair costs. Service intervals are reasonable and parts availability is good, helping to keep maintenance expenses under control.

Is the Hyundai I20 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a small car, the i20 offers impressive practicality that makes it suitable for small families and couples alike. The 352-litre boot is among the largest in its class, easily swallowing a weekly shop or several suitcases for a weekend away. The rear seats fold down 60/40 to create a flat loading floor, allowing you to carry longer items when needed. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage cubbies for phones, keys, and drinks, including a decent-sized glovebox and door pockets.

The i20 works well for different lifestyles and needs. Young professionals will appreciate its efficient running costs and easy parking ability, while small families will find it spacious enough for school runs and day trips. Compared to other used Hyundai cars, the i20 offers the best balance of size and efficiency. Its compact dimensions make it perfect for urban driving, yet it’s comfortable enough for longer motorway journeys. The high seating position gives you a good view of the road ahead, boosting confidence in busy traffic.

The Hyundai i20 proves that small cars don’t have to mean big compromises. It packages impressive practicality, modern technology, and efficient engines into a stylish and affordable package. The combination of generous interior space, excellent fuel economy, and Hyundai’s outstanding warranty makes it a compelling choice in the competitive supermini market. It’s a car that quietly gets on with the job of making your daily life easier.

You choose the i20 because it offers genuine value for money without feeling cheap or basic. It’s well-suited to a wide range of buyers, from first-time drivers to downsizers looking for something more manageable. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out on longer trips, the i20 delivers comfort and efficiency in equal measure. For anyone seeking a dependable, well-equipped small car that won’t break the bank, the i20 should be near the top of your shortlist.