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Hyundai i20: A Comparative Analysis of the Old and New Model

Published on 15 Jul, 2024, 10:08 AM IST
Updated on 15 Jul, 2024, 12:00 PM IST
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Hyundai Motors is undoubtedly one of the most renowned car brands in India. One of its popular models is the Hyundai i20, first introduced in 2014 and has undergone significant changes over the years. The updated model was launched in 2023, succeeding the pre-updated model in production from 2020 to 2023.

This comprehensive comparative analysis will meticulously outline the key differences between the old i20 (2020-2023) and the new i20 (2023) model. The comparison will explore their exterior design, interior features and comfort, performance and handling, safety aspects, and pricing. This blog will provide a thorough overview of how the i20 has evolved to cater to the changing preferences and needs of everyday drivers and car enthusiasts.

Hyundai

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Design and Exterior of Old and New i20

The design of the i20 exudes a sporty, modern, and youthful appeal, satisfying potential car buyers. Hyundai Motors upgraded the relatively conventional styling of the old model into a sensual, sporty design in its facelift version, impressing car enthusiasts. 

Old i20 

The old version of the model featured a more classic Hyundai grille style with horizontal chrome bars and the Hyundai logo in the middle. The headlights were projector-type, but they did not use LED technology. Depending on the model type, they had LED daytime running lights (DRLs). Fog lamps were present in the front bumper, which had a more basic design than the sportier air dams of the new version. Like the facelift, the general look of the pre-facelift model maintained a practical hatchback style.

The alloy wheel designs could be different depending on the model variant, but they did not have a noticeable dual-tone finish. The rear probably had a bumper in body colour, unlike the bigger blacked-out bumper found in updated models. The taillights had halogen units on their base versions, and LEDs were exclusively present on the higher trims.

The dimensions of the pre-facelift are as follows-

  • Length- 3985 mm

  • Width- 1734 mm

  • Height- 1474 mm

  • Wheelbase- 2570 mm

  • Ground Clearance- 170 mm

  • Boot Space- 311 litres

The old i20 model was available in 11 colours-

  • Fiery Red With Black Roof

  • Fiery Red, Typhoon Silver

  • Fiery Red Turbo

  • Fiery Red With Abyss Black

  • Starry Night

  • Atlas White

  • Atlas White With Abyss Black

  • Polar White With Black Roof

  • Titan Grey 

  • Polar White

New i20

The new i20 features a sporty, attractive design that grabs attention everywhere. It is broader and longer and also includes a new electric sunroof. The updated front look showcases a more prominent and newly designed grille with a mesh pattern and glossy black edges framing it. 

Additionally, the Hyundai repositioned the logo on the bonnet. The front and back skid plates are black instead of silver, and the headlamps use LED projectors with upside-down arrow-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The sides retain a similar profile to the old model, but now, the 16-inch alloy wheels have a fresh design with a noticeable dual-tone look. At the rear, the new i20 features a more prominent blacked-out bumper.

The updated dimensions of the new i20 are-

  • Length- 3995 mm

  • Width- 1775 mm

  • Height- 1505 mm

  • Wheelbase- 2580 mm

  • Ground Clearance- 170 mm

  • Boot Space- 351 litres

The new colour options include-

  • Amazon Grey

  • Atlas White

  • Titan Grey

  • Typhoon Silver

  • Starry Night

  • Fiery Red

  • Atlas White with a black roof

  • Fiery Red with a black roof

Check out: Hyundai i20 Colours

Comparison of the Old and New Designs of i20

While the old model had a more straightforward and conservative design, the new i20 projects a sporty, aggressive look with a sleek profile and sharp lines. The old model’s grill was simple and small but upgraded into a broader and more prominent cascading grille with bold chrome finishes and intricate patterns. 

The new i20 incorporated LED technology into its slimmer and angular headlights, which were larger and bulbous in the old model. In terms of proportions, the facelift has a broader and lower stance that enhances its road presence and aerodynamics. Conversely, the pre-facelift model represented a compact, boxy shape that was practical for city driving. 

Read More: Hyundai i20 Dimensions

Interior and Comfort of Old and New i20

The old model looked outdated regarding interior design and comfort features, but its facelift version received noticeable upgrades. 

Old i20 

The interior layout of the old i20 remained consistent with the dashboard featuring a layered design. It was a blend of hard and soft-touch plastics. The comfort features included a power steering, power windows-front and rear, air conditioner, heater, adjustable steering, height-adjustable driver seat, remote engine start/stop, etc. The old model had a standard fabric upholstery, and the seats were comfortable during long rides with ample headroom and knee room. This model had a boot capacity of 311 litres. 

New i20 

The interiors of the new i20 have an all-new grey and black theme, unlike the all-black theme of the old model. The dashboard design didn’t undergo any specific changes, though. The seats are made of high-quality leatherette, giving passengers immense comfort during long rides. Both front and rear passengers can enjoy the spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom. 

Most of the comfort features remain the same as those of the pre-facelift model. However, it now has drive modes, six airbags, a type C charging port, a wireless charger, a keyless start/stop button, ambient lighting, a Bose-sourced seven-speaker setup, BlueLink connectivity, and an electrically adjustable sunroof. Also, its boot space capacity has increased to 351 litres. 

Comparison of the Old and New Interiors of i20

The dashboard layout and most comfort features are the same as before. However, the new model gets a grey/black dual-tone colour scheme, unlike the all-black colour scheme of the old model. In addition, the new model comes with a USB Type-C phone charger. 

Check out: Hyundai i20 Interior

Performance and Handling of Old and New i20

The performance and handling of the old and new i20 models are similar. There is a slight difference in their engine specs, however, as described below- 

Old i20 

The old i20 model had a 1.2-litre Kappa petrol, 1.0-litre Turbo GDi petrol and 1.5-litre U2 diesel engine. Their displacement was 1197cc, 998cc, and 1493cc, respectively. It generated a power of 81.8 - 118.41 bhp and 171.62 Nm - 114.74 Nm torque. The engines had the following transmission choices-

  • 1.2-litre Kappa petrol- 5-speed manual (5 MT), Intelligent variable transmission (IVT)

  • Turbo GDi petrol- 7-speed dual-clutch transmission 

  • 1.5-litre U2 diesel- 6-speed manual (6 MT)

Regarding the ride and handling dynamics, the old model offered predictable and comfortable ride quality suitable for urban driving and daily commutes. It provides a mileage of 19.65 - 25 kmpl. The standard suspension setup is slightly firm. Although the steering was responsive and light at lower speeds, it did not offer an engaging or sporty feel. 

New i20

The new i20 model retains the 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine from its older version but has discontinued the 1.0-litre Turbo GDi petrol and 1.5-litre U2 diesel engines. The 1.2-litre Kappa petrol model has a displacement of 1197 cc and delivers a maximum power output of 81.8 - 86.76 bhp and 114.7 Nm of torque. The transmission system is as follows-

  • 1.2-litre Kappa petrol- 5-speed manual (5 MT), Intelligent variable transmission (IVT)

The great looks of the new i20 come with great power. The powerful petrol engine of the facelift with two driving modes enhances your drive while offering a thrilling performance. It provides a mileage of 16 - 20 kmpl. The handling is smooth and provides a comfortable ride in city traffic while being steady when driving fast.

Comparison of the Old and New Performance

The new i20 offers better handling than its older model, with enhanced power delivery and efficiency. Unlike the pre-facelift model, you can enjoy a sporty feel when driving in the city and on highways. Also, the new model assures stability with smooth steering handling when moving fast. 

Also Read: Hyundai i20 All Specifications

Safety and Technology of Old and New i20

Regarding safety and technology, the facelift model showcased a significant improvement. Here’s a quick comparison:

Old i20 

The old i20’s safety features were primarily dependent on the variant. The standard safety features included- dual airbags, an Anti-Lock Braking System, Central Locking, Power Door Locks, Child Safety Locks, Anti-Theft Alarm, Rear parking sensors, Seatbelt pretensioners, force limiters, etc. More advanced safety features were present on the higher trim levels, such as hill start assist control, brake assist system, tyre pressure monitoring system, etc.

Regarding tech features, the pre-facelift i20 housed a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual 12V power sockets, a USB port, and an AUX port, adding convenience to the passenger's experience. It also features wireless charging, a rear parking camera, and automatic climate control with rear AC vents. It also gets a cooled glovebox and automatic projector headlamps with LED DRLs and positioning lamps.

New i20

Regarding safety features, the new i20 has advanced features that are standard in all its variants. This model now has six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, electronic stability control (ESC), hill assist control, vehicle stability management, rear parking sensors, a tyre pressure monitoring system, etc. 

The technology features include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, automatic climate control, wireless charger, digital instrument cluster, keyless start/stop button, ambient lighting, automatic headlamps with cornering function, puddle lamps, smart key, cruise control, rear wiper and washer, BlueLink connectivity, Bose-sourced seven-speaker setup, and an electrically-adjustable sunroof.

Comparison of the Old and New i20 Safety and Technology Features

The old Hyundai i20 provided standard safety and technology features, like airbags, ABS brakes, and manual air conditioning. However, the new i20 has many improved safety features and new technologies. It includes six airbags for better protection, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, and a larger infotainment system that connects with smartphones. It also has wireless charging for phones and connected car tech that make driving safer and more enjoyable overall compared to before.

Price and Value

The ex-showroom (Delhi) prices of the old and new i20 models differ significantly. Here’s a quick comparison.

Old i20 

The old i20 had five broad variants- Era, Magna, Sportz, Asta and Asta (O), whose price ranges between Rs 7.46 lakhs to Rs 11.88 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). The pricing structure of these variants is as follows-

  • Magna- Rs 7.46 lakhs to Rs 8.43 lakhs

  • Sportz- Rs 8.08 lakhs to Rs 10.16 lakhs

  • Asta- Rs 9.04 lakhs to Rs 10.96 lakhs

  • Asta(O)- Rs 9.77 lakhs to Rs 11.88 lakhs

The old i20 offered one of the most affordable value propositions in the hatchback segment. Its pricing was based on its design, comfort, reliability, handling, performance, and features. 

New i20

The new i20 is now available in six broad variants- Era, Magna, Sportz, Sportz (O), Asta, and Asta (O). Their price ranges between Rs 7.04 lakhs to Rs 11.21 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). The variant-wise price breakdown is as follows-

  • Era- Rs 7.04 lakhs

  • Magna- Rs 7.75 lakhs

  • Sportz- Rs 8.38 lakhs to Rs 9.43 lakhs

  • Sportz (O)- Rs 8.73 lakhs to Rs 9.78 lakhs

  • Asta- Rs 9.34 lakhs

  • Asta (O)- Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 11.21 lakhs 

The updated pricing strategy made the new Hyundai i20 model even more affordable. Undoubtedly, it offers better value for money in the hatchback segment, and that too, with more advanced features, enhanced performance, and design upgrades. 

Comparison of the Old and New Pricing and Value

The old i20 undoubtedly aimed to attract the attention of budget-conscious car buyers. It offered them an affordable entry point into the compact hatchback market and soon became competitive due to its reliability and practical design, offering good value for money. 

However, as customer expectations and automotive standards evolved, the facelifted model witnessed a shift in its pricing strategy. The new model was lower than its pre-facelift. Nevertheless, the brand didn’t compromise on quality but instead focused on offering more advanced features and a sporty appearance. 

Check out: Hyundai i20 Variants

The ex-showroom price for the top and base models-

Car name

Variants

Ex-showroom price (Delhi)

Old i20

Base model- i20 2020-2023 Magna

Top model- Asta Opt Turbo DCT DT BSVI

Rs 7.46 Lakh

Rs 11.88 Lakh

New i20

Base model- i20 Era

Top model- i20 Asta Opt IVT DT

Rs 7.04 Lakh

Rs 11.21 Lakh

Conclusion

The Hyundai i20 has transformed from its older versions to the new generation. These changes are evident in its design, performance, safety, technology, and value. The new i20 offers more value than its pre-facelift version, and it now includes advanced features that improve safety and exude a modern look, which makes it an exciting choice for today's drivers who want something up-to-date with a competitive price tag. This transformation also shows Hyundai's promise to meet changing customer needs and stay strong in India's competitive compact hatchback car market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Hyundai i20

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When was the Hyundai i20 facelift launched?

On the 8th of September, 2023, Hyundai launched the new i20 in India.

What variants does the facelifted i20 get?

The facelifted i20 has six broad variants: Era, Magna, Sportz, Sportz (O), Asta, and Asta (O).

What is the difference between the old and new i20 regarding fuel type?

The old model was available in petrol and diesel fuel options, while the new i20 is available only in petrol.

Is the Hyundai i20 facelift a safe car?

Yes, the new i20 has standard safety features in every variant, such as six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, HAC, VSM, rear parking sensors, and TPMS.

Does the old i20 offer better mileage than the new model?

The new i20 offers a 16 - 20 kmpl mileage, while the old one offers 19.65 - 25 kmpl. Since the old i20 had petrol and diesel models, its incredible mileage justified the facelift model's petrol-only engine.

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