Hyundai i20 2023 Review
B-Segment Excellence with Premium Technology & Performance
Key Highlights
- ✓ Four Engine Options: 1.2 MPi (84 PS), 1.0 T-GDi (100 PS), 1.0 T-GDi 48V (100 PS), 1.0 T-GDi 48V (120 PS)
- ✓ Best-in-Class Interior: 352L cargo, 1,165L folded – spacious B-segment leader
- ✓ Premium Connectivity: 10.25″ touchscreen, Bluelink®, OTA updates, 64-color ambient lighting
- ✓ Comprehensive Safety: FCA with Cyclist, LFA, NSCC, RCCA, BCA, 8 airbags
- ✓ 48V Mild Hybrid: 3-4% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions
- ✓ Emotional Design: Elegant and sporty with distinctive styling
Market Availability
• European Market (Primary)
• Made in Europe (Czech & Turkey)
• Global Markets Available
Select Powertrain Variant
Warranty Coverage
Hyundai offers a comprehensive 5-year unlimited mileage warranty with 5 years roadside assistance and annual vehicle health checks included for all powertrains.
Design Philosophy
The i20 features an elegant and sporty design that fuses emotional appeal with state-of-the-art technology. The distinctive Hyundai Sensuous Sportiness design language creates a premium presence in the B-segment with refined proportions and dynamic character.
- • Length: 4,080 mm (class-leading proportions)
- • Parametric Surface: Premium sculpted body lines
- • LED Lighting Signature: Distinctive daytime running lights
- • Aerodynamic Design: Optimized for efficiency and performance
Exterior Colors Available
10 sophisticated colors including premium metallics
Front Design
Parametric Boomerang LED DRL signature creates distinctive identity. Glossy black Hyundai emblem. Sculpted hood with volumetric lines. Lower air intake emphasizes sportiness.
Side Profile
Refined character lines emphasize width and dynamics. Floating roof design with chrome trim creates premium appearance. Clean body surfaces with precision edges.
Rear Design
Parametric LED combination lights echo front DRL design. Sculpted tailgate with integrated spoiler. Chrome trim elements enhance premium positioning.
i20 N Line Performance Variant
Exclusive sportier design with bespoke front/rear bumpers, red trim accents, unique N-badging, and performance-focused styling. Available in select colors with distinctive 18-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and lowered suspension. Dual exhaust pipes emphasize performance character.
Space & Comfort
The i20 offers best-in-class interior space with longest wheelbase and optimized packaging for maximum passenger and cargo comfort.
- • Cargo Space: 352L (seats up) / 1,165L (seats folded)
- • Seating: 5 passengers with premium comfort
- • Head Room Front/Rear: 1,018mm / 978mm
- • Leg Room Front/Rear: 1,093mm / 906mm
- • Shoulder Room Front/Rear: 1,378mm / 1,374mm
- • Rear Seat Reclining: Adjustable for passenger comfort
Interior Ambiance
✨ Premium Materials
Soft-touch dashboard with fine texture. Quality upholstery throughout. Parametric pattern extends from exterior to interior design language.
💡 64-Color Ambient Lighting
Customizable mood lighting sets atmosphere. 64 color options for personalization. Adaptive lighting responds to driving conditions.
📦 Smart Storage
Deep door pockets with multiple compartments. Center console storage with dual cup holders. Headliner storage pockets for convenience.
🔧 Convenience Features
Automatic air conditioning with pollution sensing. Dual-zone climate control (on select trims). Power windows and electric parking brake standard.
👁️ Enhanced Visibility
Panoramic sunroof option for light-filled cabin. Slim A-pillars improve sightlines. Rear-view camera with dynamic parking guidelines.
🎨 Customization
Multiple interior color themes available. Optional leather-trimmed steering wheel and seats. Premium upholstery packages for higher trims.
10.25-Inch Touchscreen Display
Largest in B-segment with premium interface and comprehensive smartphone integration.
- • 10.25″ HD color touchscreen (largest in segment)
- • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wireless)
- • Premium sound system with tuning options
- • USB Type-C and charging ports
- • Voice command control with natural language
Bluelink® Telematics
Complete connected ecosystem providing convenience, safety, and control.
- • OTA map and infotainment updates
- • Remote lock/unlock & vehicle status
- • Connected routing with live traffic
- • Real-time service notifications
- • Emergency assistance integration
📡 Live Traffic & Navigation
Real-time traffic updates, congestion avoidance, alternative routing, parking space finder with pricing, fuel station information.
🔄 Over-The-Air Updates
OTA map and infotainment updates keep navigation current. Vehicle software updates without dealer visit. Always latest features.
🎵 Smartphone Integration
Seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hands-free calling and messaging. Music streaming and app access.
🔌 Charging Solutions
Wireless 15W smartphone charging pad. USB Type-C in front and rear. Multiple charging options for all devices.
🎤 Voice Assistant
Natural language voice recognition. Cloud-based voice processing. Control navigation, phone, and vehicle functions hands-free.
🛰️ Connected Services
Remote services via Bluelink app. Find My Car locator. Vehicle alarm notifications. Service appointment scheduling.
The i20 offers four distinct engine options providing different performance and efficiency profiles for all driving preferences.
Engine Lineup & Performance
| Engine | Power (PS) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h | Top Speed | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 MPi | 84 | 118 | 13.1s | 173 km/h | 5MT |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 PS | 100 | 172 | 10.4s (MT) / 11.4s (DCT) | 188 / 185 km/h | 6MT / 7DCT |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 PS 48V | 100 | 172 | 10.4s (iMT) / 11.4s (DCT) | 188 / 185 km/h | 6iMTe / 7DCT |
| 1.0 T-GDi 120 PS 48V | 120 | 200 | 10.1s (MT) / 10.3s (DCT) | 190 km/h | 6MT / 7DCT |
All engines: EU6d emission standard • ISG (Idle Stop & Go) standard • 48V mild hybrid improves efficiency 3-4%
Fuel Consumption & CO₂ Emissions (WLTP)
| Engine / Variant | Fuel Consumption (L/100km) | CO₂ (g/km) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2 MPi 5MT | 5.2-5.6 | 119-127 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 MT | 5.1-5.5 | 117-126 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 7DCT | 5.3-5.8 | 121-132 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 48V iMTe | 4.9-5.2 | 113-119 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 100 48V 7DCT | 5.0-5.4 | 115-123 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 120 48V MT | 5.0-5.4 | 115-123 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 120 48V 7DCT | 5.1-5.5 | 117-126 |
48V mild hybrid achieves 3-4% better efficiency. Manual transmissions typically more efficient than automatics.
⚡ 48V Mild Hybrid System
Available on T-GDi engines. Recovers braking energy. Reduces CO2 by 3-4%. Improves fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Seamless integration.
🔋 Idle Stop & Go
ISG standard on all powertrains. Auto engine shutoff during traffic. Restart in milliseconds. Significant urban fuel savings. Reduces emissions and improves efficiency.
⚙️ Transmission Options
5MT (1.2), 6MT / 7DCT (1.0T), 6iMTe (48V). 7-speed DCT offers smooth automatic. 6iMTe intelligent manual reduces fuel use. Manual preferred for efficiency.
🏁 N Line Performance
1.0 T-GDi 120 PS 48V standard. 10.1s 0-100 acceleration. 190 km/h top speed. Available with 6MT or 7DCT. Sportiest i20 variant.
The i20 features the most comprehensive safety package in the B-segment with advanced SmartSense technology.
Passive Safety
- ✓ 8 Airbags (driver, passenger, side, curtain)
- ✓ Multi-load Collision Structure
- ✓ High-Strength Steel Body
- ✓ Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
- ✓ Brake Assist & ABS
- ✓ ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors
Emergency Systems
- ✓ Advanced eCall: Automatic emergency notification
- ✓ Manual SOS Button: Direct emergency contact
- ✓ Emergency Brake Lights: Warns following traffic
- ✓ Emergency Steering: Hazard warning system
Active Safety & Driver Assistance Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision-Avoidance (FCA) | Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Warns driver with visual/audio alerts. Auto-braking if collision imminent. City/Highway/Pedestrian/Cyclist modes. |
| Lane Following Assist (LFA) | Uses steering control to help maintain lane during highway driving. Reduces driver fatigue. Gentle steering corrections. |
| Blind Spot Collision Avoidance (BCA) | Detects vehicles in blind spots. Alerts driver. Auto-corrects steering if needed during lane change. |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance (RCCA) | Detects cross-traffic when reversing. Warns driver and applies auto-braking if collision imminent. |
| Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) | Reminds driver if rear door opened during journey. Prevents leaving children or pets in vehicle. |
| Driver Attention Warning (DAW) | Monitors driving patterns for drowsiness/distraction. Alerts driver with sound and cluster message. |
| Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) | Recognizes traffic signs. Warns if speed exceeded. Integrates with cruise control for speed limiting. |
| Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC) | Uses navigation data to adjust cruise speed automatically for upcoming curves and speed limits. |
| High Beam Assist (HBA) | Automatically switches between high and low beams. Improves nighttime visibility safely. |
🅿️ Parking Assistance
- • Rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines
- • Front and rear parking sensors
- • Automatic parking brake
🛣️ Braking Systems
- • Dual-circuit power-assisted brakes
- • Electronic Brake-force Distribution
- • ABS with 4 channels, 4 sensors
Exterior Dimensions
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 4,080 mm |
| Overall Width | 1,778 mm (without mirrors) |
| Overall Height | 1,475 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,580 mm |
| Front Overhang | 815 mm |
| Rear Overhang | 685 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 150 mm |
| Turning Circle | 5.3 m |
Interior Dimensions
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Head Room Front/Rear | 1,018 mm / 978 mm |
| Leg Room Front/Rear | 1,093 mm / 906 mm |
| Shoulder Room Front/Rear | 1,378 mm / 1,374 mm |
| Cargo Space (Seats Up) | 352 litres |
| Cargo Space (Seats Folded) | 1,165 litres |
Weight & Capacity
| Specification | 1.2 MPi | 1.0 T-GDi 100 PS | 1.0 T-GDi 120 PS 48V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1,013-1,123 kg | 1,065-1,175 kg | 1,090-1,200 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 1,420-1,530 kg | 1,505-1,625 kg | 1,530-1,650 kg |
| Max Payload | 407-507 kg | 440-550 kg | 440-550 kg |
Wheel & Tire Options
Standard & Optional
- • 16″ Steel Wheels (205/60R16)
- • 16″ Alloy Wheels (205/60R16)
- • 17″ Alloy Wheels (215/55R17)
- • 18″ N Line Wheels (225/45R18)
Suspension & Steering
- • Front: Independent McPherson Strut
- • Rear: Independent Multi-Link
- • Steering: Electrical Power Assisted
- • Turning circle: 5.3m
Safety & Environmental Standards
- ✓ Emissions: EU 6d emission standard on all engines
- ✓ Crash Protection: Multi-load collision structure, 8 airbags
- ✓ Warranty: 5-year unlimited mileage + 5 years roadside assistance
- ✓ Manufacturing: Designed and built in Europe (Czech & Turkey)
The Hyundai i20 competes in the competitive B-segment against established European rivals. Here’s an honest comparison to help you decide.
🆚 Hyundai i20 vs Volkswagen Polo
Premium German Competitor✅ Reasons to Consider VW Polo
- ✓ Premium German Engineering: Legendary VW build quality and refinement
- ✓ Strong Brand Prestige: VW badge carries premium perception globally
- ✓ Proven Reliability: Decades of track record in quality vehicles
- ✓ Excellent Handling: Precise steering and responsive chassis
- ✓ Premium Interior Materials: Quality plastics and materials throughout
- ✓ Strong Resale Value: Excellent residual value retention
❌ Reasons to Ignore VW Polo
- ✗ Higher Starting Price: €17,500+ vs i20’s €14,990 – €2,500 premium
- ✗ Smaller Display: Only 8″ vs i20’s class-leading 10.25″ touchscreen
- ✗ Less Cargo Space: 312L vs i20’s 352L capacity
- ✗ Fewer Engine Options: Limited powertrain choice vs i20’s 4 options
- ✗ Fewer Safety Features: Less comprehensive ADAS than i20
- ✗ No Mild Hybrid: Lacks 48V efficiency improvement technology
🆚 Hyundai i20 vs Renault Clio
French Styling Alternative✅ Reasons to Consider Renault Clio
- ✓ Distinctive French Styling: Unique design appeals to design-conscious buyers
- ✓ Nimble Handling: Light and responsive with fun driving character
- ✓ Efficient Engines: Proven TCe turbo engines with good real-world economy
- ✓ Lower Entry Price: Slightly cheaper base model options
- ✓ Rich History: Iconic nameplate with decades of heritage
❌ Reasons to Ignore Renault Clio
- ✗ Smaller Infotainment: 8″ screen vs i20’s premium 10.25″ display
- ✗ Less Cargo Space: 320L vs i20’s spacious 352L
- ✗ Limited ADAS: Fewer advanced safety features than i20
- ✗ Quality Concerns: Reports of build quality and reliability issues
- ✗ Shorter Warranty: Only 3-year coverage vs i20’s 5-year warranty
- ✗ Less Cargo When Folded: 1,146L vs i20’s 1,165L
🆚 Hyundai i20 vs Ford Fiesta
Fun-To-Drive American✅ Reasons to Consider Ford Fiesta
- ✓ Engaging Driving Dynamics: Fun, responsive handling and steering
- ✓ Proven Reliability: Solid engineering from major manufacturer
- ✓ Strong Resale Value: Popular in used market
- ✓ Global Service Network: Ford’s worldwide dealer support
- ✓ Sporty Image: ST Line variants offer performance appeal
❌ Reasons to Ignore Ford Fiesta
- ✗ Older Generation: Design now aging vs i20’s modern looks
- ✗ Smaller Touchscreen: 8″ vs i20’s 10.25″ premium display
- ✗ Less Cargo: 311L vs i20’s 352L capacity
- ✗ Fewer Safety Features: Less comprehensive ADAS package
- ✗ Lower Tech: Behind on infotainment and connectivity features
- ✗ No Hybrid Option: Lacks 48V mild hybrid technology
- ✗ Warranty: Typically 3-year vs i20’s 5-year unlimited
🆚 Hyundai i20 vs Opel Astra
Compact German Hatchback✅ Reasons to Consider Opel Astra
- ✓ Spacious Interior: One of largest in class with good cargo
- ✓ Premium Feel: High-quality interior materials and finishing
- ✓ Strong Performance Engines: Capable turbocharged options
- ✓ German Engineering: Opel’s engineering heritage and quality
- ✓ Good Safety Rating: Strong crash test scores
❌ Reasons to Ignore Opel Astra
- ✗ Higher Price: €18,500+ vs i20’s €14,990 – significant premium
- ✗ Slightly Larger Class: More C-segment than B-segment positioning
- ✗ Fewer Engine Choices: Less powertrain variety than i20
- ✗ Less Advanced Tech: Smaller display, fewer ADAS features
- ✗ No Mild Hybrid: Lacks 48V hybrid efficiency tech
- ✗ Higher Running Costs: Typically more expensive to maintain
Quick Comparison Summary
| Feature | Hyundai i20 | VW Polo | Renault Clio | Ford Fiesta | Opel Astra |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | €14,990 | €17,500 | €14,500 | €15,200 | €18,500 |
| Engine Options | 4 (incl. 48V) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cargo Space | 352L / 1,165L | 312L / 1,190L | 320L / 1,146L | 311L / 1,080L | 370L / 1,237L |
| Touchscreen Size | 10.25″ (largest) | 8.25″ | 8″ | 8″ | 8″ |
| Warranty | 5yr unlimited | 3yr/100k km | 3yr/100k km | 3yr/100k km | 3yr/100k km |
| Safety Features (ADAS) | Comprehensive | Advanced | Intermediate | Intermediate | Advanced |
| 48V Hybrid | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Brand Perception | Value Leader | Premium | Style-Focused | Fun-to-Drive | Premium |
🏆 Winner: Hyundai i20
The Hyundai i20 emerges as the **B-segment value champion** thanks to its unbeatable combination of four engine options including 48V mild hybrid, largest 10.25″ touchscreen in segment, class-leading interior space (352L cargo), most comprehensive ADAS safety package, and best warranty (5-year unlimited). While competitors like VW Polo excel in prestige and Opel Astra in spaciousness, only the i20 delivers next-generation technology and features at this price point. For buyers prioritizing technology, safety, space, efficiency, and value for money, the i20 is the clear B-segment leader.
✅ Key Advantages
Largest Touchscreen in Segment
10.25″ display is biggest in B-segment with premium interface and smartphone integration.
Four Engine Options Including 48V
1.2 MPi, 1.0 T-GDi 100PS, 1.0 T-GDi 100PS 48V, 1.0 T-GDi 120PS 48V – best in class choice.
Best-in-Class Interior Space
352L cargo (1,165L folded) with longest wheelbase and widest shoulders (1,378mm).
Comprehensive ADAS Safety
FCA with Cyclist, LFA, NSCC, RCCA, BCA, DAW, ISLA – most complete in B-segment.
Outstanding Warranty
5-year unlimited mileage (not time-based) with 5-year roadside assistance included.
48V Mild Hybrid Efficiency
3-4% fuel/CO2 reduction available on T-GDi engines. Industry-leading efficiency.
Elegant Modern Design
Distinctive Hyundai Sensuous Sportiness language stands out vs competitors.
Premium Bluelink® Connectivity
Full telematics with OTA updates, live traffic, cloud voice, remote services.
Excellent Value Proposition
Premium features at competitive B-segment pricing starting €14,990.
64-Color Ambient Lighting
Customizable mood lighting creates premium cabin atmosphere unique in class.
❌ Areas for Improvement
Base Engine Power Modest
1.2 MPi (84 PS) feels underpowered with full load; 1.0 T-GDi recommended.
Fuel Consumption Not Class-Best
Competitors like VW Polo achieve slightly better real-world efficiency.
Turbo Engine Pricing Premium
T-GDi variants command significant markup; base model is underpowered for highway.
Auto Manual Transmission Limitations
iMTe lacks smoothness of true automatics; not as premium feeling.
Limited Cargo vs Larger Class
While good for B-segment, C-segment cars (Astra) offer more space.
Service Network Smaller
VW and Opel dealer networks larger than Hyundai in some regions.
Interior Plastics in Base Trims
Plastic-heavy interior on entry models; premium materials on top trims only.
N Line Performance Limited
120 PS is modest vs competitors’ performance variants; not true hot hatch.
Brand Prestige Lower
VW, Opel, Ford still carry more brand prestige in European markets.
Resale Value Uncertain
Traditional brands may retain value better long-term in used market.
Final Verdict
The 2023 Hyundai i20 is a B-segment technology leader that redefines affordable mobility by packing premium features, advanced safety, and European engineering into an accessible package.
🎯 Best For
Tech-savvy buyers seeking modern features, advanced safety technology, spacious interior, and efficient powertrains without paying premium brand prices.
💡 Key Takeaway
The i20 democratizes premium technology in the B-segment. Largest touchscreen, comprehensive ADAS, 48V hybrid efficiency, and excellent warranty make it outstanding value.
⭐ Rating Breakdown
- Technology: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Safety: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Design: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Performance: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Value: ★★★★★ (5/5)
The Hyundai i20 represents intelligent value in the B-segment. Its combination of premium technology (10.25″ touchscreen, Bluelink®, OTA updates), comprehensive SmartSense safety (FCA with Cyclist, LFA, NSCC, RCCA), spacious interior (352L cargo), four engine choices including 48V mild hybrid, 64-color ambient lighting, and industry-leading 5-year unlimited warranty make it exceptional for the price. For buyers seeking next-generation features and technology without paying premium European brand prices, the i20 is a compelling choice that outperforms competitors on value and technology.
Customization Options
- • 10 exterior colors with metallics
- • 4 interior color themes
- • 64-color ambient lighting
- • 16/17/18-inch wheel choices
- • Panoramic sunroof option
Market Positioning
- • Primary: European Market
- • Manufactured: Czech & Turkey
- • Segment: B-Segment Hatchback
- • Category: Premium Value
- • Target: Tech-Forward Buyers
Connected Features
- • Bluelink® Full Telematics
- • OTA Map Updates
- • Cloud Voice Recognition
- • Wireless Charging Pad
- • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Review Date: November 2025 | Market: Europe | Data based on official Hyundai specifications (August 2023)
Prices, specifications, and availability subject to change. Please verify with local Hyundai dealer for current details.
