Hyundai has introduced its refreshed i20 to the South African market, promising a stylish design and well-rounded motoring package that takes a substantial 10% share in the competitive hatchback segment. The new i20 comes in three specification and trim levels with a choice of three engines and three transmissions, offering a versatile range for different tastes and budgets. Specifications and Pricing At the entry-level, the i20 Premium offers either a 1.2-litre or a 1.4-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. The 1.2 Premium, priced at R309,900, features a 5-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.4 Premium, at R329,900, uses a 6-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more features, the Executive variants come with the same engine options and gearboxes, priced at R329,900 for the 1.2 manual and R349,900 for the 1.4 automatic. Topping the range is the sporty i20 N Line with a turbocharged 1-litre engine and 7-speed Dual Clutch transmission, priced at R467,500. Design and Exterior The new i20 boasts a refreshed design with a sleek front bumper, glossy black radiator grille, and redesigned rear bumper. The Executive and N Line models feature new-look 16-inch alloy wheels, while the Premium variants sport elegant 15-inch steel wheels with carbon-black covers. A dynamic light signature is achieved through 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. Interior Comfort and Features Inside, the i20 features a clean, ergonomic design with a mix of cloth and artificial leather seats in the Premium and Executive variants, and exclusive artificial leather seats in the N Line. Standard convenience features include a manual air conditioner in the Premium and Executive, while the N Line is equipped with automatic climate control. All models have a 3.5-inch Supervision digital instrument cluster, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and multiple charging points including a wireless charger in the Executive and N Line variants. The N Line enhances the driving experience with sporty design elements like a three-spoke N Line steering wheel, perforated leather with red stitching, and a specially designed gear knob. It also features a sunroof, cruise control, ESP, and HAC. Engines and Performance The i20's 1.2-litre engine delivers 61 kW and 114.7 Nm of torque, achieving a top speed of 169 km/h and a fuel economy of 5.9 litres/100 km. The 1.4-litre engine produces 73.3 kW and 133.4 Nm of torque with a combined cycle fuel consumption of 6.9 litres/100 km. The turbocharged 1-litre engine in the N Line offers 89.5 kW and 171.6 Nm of torque, with a sporty character that shines through its 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. Safety Features All i20 variants are equipped with seat belts, ISOFIX child seat attachment points, and airbag protection for the driver and front passenger. The N Line adds side impact airbags and curtain airbags extending to the rear. The i20 also features ABS, EBD, and ESC for enhanced safety. Conclusion The new Hyundai i20 offers a compelling package for various needs, from the efficient and affordable Premium models to the feature-rich Executive variants, and the sporty, high-performance N Line. With prices starting at R309,900, the i20 remains a solid competitor in the South African hatchback market, delivering style, performance, and value for money.