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| The new i20 has a rather retro design that may aspire to look less radical for all those A-B buyers who currently opt for the Polo. |
HYUNDAI’S new i20 does not look new. Instead, its bulky, more
linear design hints of old money.
Designed with what can only be described as Hyundai’s new retro
look, the new i20 does away with the fluidic lines that have set the Korean
brand apart from its rivals.
Instead of impressing on the outside, one of the key goals for the
design team was to
ensure the new i20’s perceived interior quality was among the very best in the segment.
ensure the new i20’s perceived interior quality was among the very best in the segment.
And for once, none of the KZN motoring hacks at the regional launch
could moan about hard plastics, as high-grade Thermal Plastic Olefin (TPO) is
used inside the i20. The soft-to-the-touch material is highly durable and
maintains a premium look and feel even after frequent use. Piano-black inserts,
in addition to chrome detailing around the air vents and gear-shift lever,
complete the old-money look inside.
The new i20 has either a 1 197 cc (61 kW/115 Nm) or a 1 368 cc
(74 kW/133 Nm) four-cylinder petrol. The entry level 1,2 comes only with a
five-speed manual, while the 1,4 has either a four-speed auto box or a six-speed
manual gearbox.
Shift accuracy and snap-in feel has been improved with the addition
of a guide plate inserted in the control- shaft coupling. Since its launch in
2005, 68 031 i20 models have been sold in SA, making this SA’s second most
popular hatch after the Volkswagen Polo. Hyundai SA’s marketing director Stanley
Anderson said 400 i20s are already impressing customers at Avis as rental cars.
And we all know how tough rentals cars have to be, so the new i20 has what it
takes.
Hyundai’s five year or 150 000 km warranty is standard.
(Impressions gathered at a launch sponsored by the
manufacturer.)
