Finally due to slowing sales and Tata Indica Vista being a run away hit, Hyundai had no other option but to roll out the i20 a month before their scheduled launch!
First hand impression follows as test drive mules were not available . The car is definitely a good -looker and the tear drop headlights are strangely similar to the Indica Vista.The rear lamps are stacked meaning the boot space is on the higher side.The car looks bigger than the getz externally and exudes a feeling of premium appeal instantly!
Interiors are fantastic, feels like an Innova, in terms of plastics used and fabric trim . The base model itself comes with a host of features as standard . Visit the Hyundai India website to see the specs. Driver seating is spacious and comfortable .The legroom space is just about ample for front and rear leg-room unfortunately is just okay for kids . I don’t know why Hyundai launches a premium compact and can’t figure out that we Indians who lived in crowded apartments, in crowded cities , would like to have some space atleast in our damn car !
Boot space is adequate for a weekend trip for a family of four(2 adults and 2 kids).
The model on display was the Asta (middle version). It had aux-in and ipod/usb ports built into the mp3 system. It has Steering which can be adjusted for reach and rake.Two-tone beige interiors lend a premium feel to the car. It had glove-box cooling for your drinks and a Multi-meter display on the console.It was running on a Kappa Engine 16 valve DOHC , capable of producing 80ps@5200rpm , torque figures are 11.4kgm @400rpm. ABS with EBD are standard on this model, along with front dual Airbags for safety. Body coloured bumpers and Door handles and 14"Alloy wheels do complete the external package. For the Musically inclined there was a MP3 player with 4 speakers with 2 front tweeters and controls on the Steering wheel , a-la-Honda City!
One thing totally let me down , was lack of legroom for the rear . I know I wouldn’t want to sit behind in this car on a long drive. If it is for city use, we can adjust .This was a car I was looking forward to buying . But it seems that Tata is going to get another customer, namely me, for the Vista. But i’ll wait for the new Indigo, before taking a final call.
I would like to recommend the car for 2 adults and 2 kids, not for 4 adults(except if it is going to be used for short 1 hour city drives, then it doesn’t matter that much).
Test drive results will be out when vehicles are available .