2020 Hyundai i20 small car revealed: price, specs and release date

Third-generation Hyundai i20 gets hybrid power and big-car luxuries. We've got everything you need to know...

On sale: September | Price from £16,000 (est)

The Hyundai i20 small car has been through a rebrand. Much like the transformations which, in recent years, have changed the fortunes of Peugeot and Volvo, Hyundai has treated the i20 to much more than a simple nip and tuck for its third generation. This i20 has instead been to the gym, to the plastic surgeon and finally to a trendy fashion house for a new wardrobe. In short, it’s gone funky.

First up, the new i20 is a mild hybrid, meaning the sole 1.0-litre 99bhp petrol engine on offer in the UK has a small electric motor which can help the car to ‘coast’ when the engine isn’t needed – leading to fuel and emissions savings of up to 4%. 

Hyundai i20 rear

Also helping this i20 to be as green as possible is the fact that despite having a wider and longer body than the outgoing car, this i20 is up to 4% lighter. And as well as giving the new i20 a set of sporty new dimensions, that extra length and width means there’s now more space in the boot. Indeed, there’s considerably more than you’ll find in a Volkswagen Polo or Ford Fiesta.

Hyundai i20 interior sketch

Inside, the new i20’s ultra-modern look continues with two digital displays measuring up to 10.25in each. The first takes the place of traditional analogue dials, with the second given over to infotainment. The new system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, while elsewhere there are features you’d normally expect to find in more expensive models, including wireless charging, LED ambient lighting, a Bose sound system and an additional USB port for rear passengers to charge their devices.

Hyundai i20 side

The car’s suite of safety kit has been upgraded too, and now includes automatic emergency braking which can detect pedestrians and cyclists, as well as a blind spot monitoring system.

Prices for the new Hyundai i20 are expected to start at around £16,000 making it more expensive than both an entry-level Polo and Fiesta. However, Hyundai will look to justify that price by offering the i20 with a higher level of standard equipment than those rivals.

If you are interested in a used Hyundai i20, have a look at our full used Hyundai i20 review.


The best small cars 2020

Can't wait for a new Hyundai i20? If you're looking for a new small car today, then you'll want to know which deserve a place on your shortlist, and which you should definitely avoid. Well, in this next story, we'll tell you just that, starting with our favourite small cars.

10. Honda Jazz

Save money on a new Honda Jazz with What Car? >>

Honda Jazz

The Jazz has long bridged the gap between small cars and five-seat MPVs, and the latest version continues that tradition. It offers class-leading space and practicality, and it might even outlast you with its outstanding reliability. It's just a shame its ride isn't more  settled.

Mini 5dr front

This version of the Mini hatchback will suit you better than the 3dr if you regularly need to fill all of the seats, plus it offers a bigger boot. Again, go for the turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol Cooper version and team it with Classic trim and you'll have most bases covered.

Read our full Mini 5dr review >>


Next: see the rest of the top 10 >>

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