Some of the car reviews I’ve read on Mouthshut are so technical that I’ve been quite scared to add my own. But now that I’ve found the courage let me be honest. I’m no car freak and I’ve just moved to the i20 from a 1999 Zen LX. The jump was pleasantly astonishing.
I’ve been researching the i20 since it’s debut in Paris in October 08 and fell in love with its looks, features and great reviews. When I happened to see the car(before the rediculous press ads and tv commercial hit the Indian screen) I fell in love with all over again. It was bigger, broader and more masculine than the swift and fusion that were within my price & style radar.
I had experienced the silent, smooth kapa engine while driving my father-in-law’s i10 the i20 offered me the same experience. Compared to the i10 the i20 does lack a bit of pep because it is bigger and heavier but that can also be an advantage at times. The interiors are super spacious and the electronic feature are mind boggling. Electronic folding mirrors, sound system controls on the steering wheel, neat folding key, double air bags, adjustable driver seat and steering, glovecompartment with AC! The features are endless. Thoughtful child locks and pegs to hang your suit are everywhere. The boot space is fantastic and the rear view mirror with a special night view adjustment is amazing.
I’ve not checked the mileage in detail but it does not appear to be very great although the 1.2 engine is very environment friendly. The rear view mirrors that fold in our out at the press of a button are great but I really wish I had the option of folding one at a time instead of both together. The AC cooling and music volume level in the rear seats are not exactly fantastic according to my wife. And the price tag is at least 30 to 40 thousand more than it should have ideally been.
But on the whole my i20 is a great looker, gives me high end features in a small segment car and is really smooth and spacious.
The dealer DSC Hyundai was very helpful till I actually bought and paid for the car. Since then I haven’t heard from them although they promised to call me when the seat covers, body cover and tinted glass was made available.