Features / 3 August 2024 / Michael Taylor

R300,000 hatchbacks competing against the new Hyundai i20 in South Africa

Hyundai has updated the i20 for South Africa, simplifying the line-up while improving the spec sheet of every derivative.

The hatchback now consists of five variants with prices starting at R309,900 – reflecting a R23,600 price cut compared to the pre-facelift models.

Buyers can choose from one of three engines, starting with a 1.2-litre, naturally-aspirated unit with 61kW and 115Nm.

This powertrain connects to a five-speed manual gearbox, giving it an average fuel consumption of 5.9l/100km.

There’s also a 1.4-litre block with 73kW and 133Nm, which gets a six-speed automatic box and consumes 6.9l/100km.

At the top of the range is a 1.0-litre turbocharged drivetrain, which ups the ante to 90kW and 172Nm.

It also features an exclusive seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission and drinks fuel at a rate of 6.9l/100km.

In terms of equipment, the base i20 Premium are fitted with 15-inch steel wheels with styled covers, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, partial artificial leather upholstery, a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, two airbags, ABS, a 3.5-inch driver’s display, and an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto,

Upgrading to the mid-range Executive models will add 16-inch alloy rims, a two-tone paint scheme, folding and heated wing mirrors, a leather gear lever and steering wheel, a wireless charger, a cooled glove box, a luggage net in the boot, and a full-size alloy spare wheel.

At the top of the pack is the N Line, which takes things even further with LED headlights, push-button start, automatic climate control, a sunroof, interior mood lighting, a Bose stereo, cruise control, six airbags, electronic stability control, and hill-assist control.

The flagship also gains a number of enhancements inspired by the automaker’s N performance division like a rear spoiler, full artificial leather seating with N branding, a three-spoke sports leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, and aluminium pedals.

Each purchase of the Hyundai comes with a 5-year/150,000 warranty, an additional 2-year/50,000km powertrain warranty, a 4-year/60,000km service plan, and 7-year/150,000km roadside assistance.