Hyundai Launches Refreshed i20 in South Africa
Quick Facts:
- 3 trim levels, 3 engines, 3 transmissions
- Priced from R309 900
Hyundai has introduced the updated i20 in South Africa, boasting a stylish redesign and an array of options in the competitive hatchback segment, where it holds a 10% market share.
The new i20 is available in three trim levels and offers a selection of three engines and three transmissions, catering to various customer needs. The range includes the entry-level Premium, the mid-tier Executive, and the top-of-the-line, sporty N Line, featuring a turbocharged engine.
Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, highlighted the i20's enduring appeal, noting its suitability for diverse tastes and budgets, along with its comprehensive motoring package. The i20's fuel-efficient 1.2- and 1.4-litre engines are particularly attractive to fleet buyers, while the N Line's turbocharged engine adds a sporty option to the lineup. Anderson also emphasized the i20's reliability, underscored by a low warranty burn rate.
The entry-level i20 Premium offers a choice between a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 1.4-litre engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Executive variants provide similar engine options, with recorded fuel consumption as low as 5.9 litres/100 km for the 1.2-litre engine and 6.9 litres/100 km for the 1.4-litre engine. The N Line variant features a turbocharged 1.0-litre engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering a blend of performance and efficiency.
Exterior Design
The refreshed i20 showcases a redesigned front bumper, glossy black radiator grille, and new taillight design, contributing to an elegant and sporty look. The Executive and N Line versions come with new-look 16-inch alloy wheels, while the Premium variants sport 15-inch steel wheels with carbon-black covers. The vehicle’s dynamic light signature is highlighted by halogen lamps for the Premium and Executive, and LEDs for the N Line. Despite its compact dimensions, the i20 offers ample interior space and a 311-litre boot.
The i20 Premium is available in five colors: Titan Grey Metallic, Fiery Red, Atlas White, Typhoon Silver Metallic, and Moonlight Blue Pearl. The Executive variants are offered in Fiery Red or Atlas White, both with a black roof. The N Line comes in Atlas White or Thunder Blue, also with a black roof.
Interior Features
Inside, the i20 features ergonomic design and standard convenience features. The Premium and Executive models have a mix of cloth and artificial leather seat coverings, while the N Line features exclusive artificial leather seats. All variants come with a manual tilt and telescopic steering column and driver's seat height adjustment.
The Premium and Executive trims are equipped with a manual air conditioner, while the N Line boasts automatic climate control. All models feature a rear console air outlet for rear passengers, and the Executive and N Line versions include a glove box cooling function.
The i20's digital instrument cluster and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system are standard across all trims, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Executive and N Line trims add a wireless phone charger, USB and USB-C charging points, and a 12V power socket. Steering wheel controls for the infotainment system, Bluetooth, and trip computer settings are also standard.
Special Features of the i20 N Line
The i20 N Line stands out with unique design elements such as an N Line logo on the radiator grille and tailgate, LED headlamps with signature LED Day Running Lights, newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels, and projection-type fog lamps. The rear features twin exhaust pipes and a sporty tailgate spoiler. Inside, the N Line offers multicolour ambient lighting, motorsport-inspired accents, and a Bose Premium Sound System with eight speakers.
The N Line's performance is enhanced by firmer suspension settings, ensuring excellent roadholding and grip. The sporty seats provide both comfort and control, while the leather-wrapped N Line steering wheel and gear knob, along with aluminum-look sports pedals, enhance the dynamic driving experience.
Engine and Transmission Options
The i20 Premium and Executive variants are powered by Hyundai's 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre Kappa engines. The 1.2-litre engine produces 61 kW and 114.7 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The 1.4-litre engine generates 73.3 kW and 133.4 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The N Line features a turbocharged 1.0-litre engine delivering 89.5 kW and 171.6 Nm of torque, combined with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the new i20, with all variants equipped with ISOFIX child seat attachment points, airbags for the driver and front passenger, and advanced braking systems. The N Line adds side impact and curtain airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
The refreshed Hyundai i20, with its stylish design, varied engine options, and comprehensive features, continues to be a strong contender in the hatchback market, appealing to a wide range of customers.
Pricing
i20 1.2 Premium (manual) - R309 900
i20 1.2 Executive (manual) - R329 900
i20 1.4 Premium (automatic) - R329 900
i20 1.4 Executive (automatic) - R349 900
i20 1.0 N Line (Dual-Clutch Transmission) - R467 500
