How Elite i20 created the premium hatchback segment?

What if you did not want to buy a common hatchback car but also could not afford a sedan? Well Hyundai decided to answer this question many years ago with the Elite i20. Find out below how the Hyundai Elite i20 created the premium hatchback segment.

Exterior looks and Design

Hyundai made the Elite i20 stand out against the competition with its distinct styling and looks. Many people loved the stylish looks of the car in the market which also helped the customers stand out among other car buyers. It was the perfect spot between the dull hatchbacks and costly sedans. The new Hyundai Elite i20 is set to get a facelift soon.  The new car promises much more enhanced looks compared to the current generation i20.

Premium Interiors

Premium Interior Features also helped the car stand out apart from the competition. You get all the modern-day features with the new car.  Cabin space is also enough for 4 passengers. Legroom and Headroom both are quite impressive with the car. You also get a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. The Elite i20 was the first car to provide sedan-like features in a more affordable price.

The fit and finish of the materials in the interiors is still tough to beat by any of its competition.  Longtime customers of the i20 are a fan of its interiors. There are no rattling sounds or any other issue if the car is maintained properly.

Also read: 5 expectations from upcoming Hyundai i20

Performance and Handling

The Hyundai Elite i20 comes with only Petrol engine after BS6. Previously Diesel engine option was also available with the car.  The current generation 1197cc engine produces maximum power output of 81.86bhp@6000rpm and a peak torque output of 117Nm@4000rpm.  The engine of the Elite i20 was always known for its smoothness over mileage. The car still delivers decent mileage in its segment.  You also get a 5-speed manual transmission on offer.

Hyundai cars are known for their light steering which acts as a negative point in handling. But if you have driven Hyundai before, or are driving car for the first time, the handling of the car is more than perfect. For people who have already driven other cars, the steering may feel a little too much light.  Braking was also a notorious rare issue in the petrol Elite i20 but is only visible after 10,000km, that too on a rare basis.

Also read: New generation Hyundai i20 spotted testing in India

Competition and Conclusion

The Hyundai Elite i20 was the first car in the premium hatchback segment. It was the segment-creator. Competition brands which were sceptical about the segment demand and price ultimately had to create their own product to compete against the Hyundai i20. Tata Altroz, Maruti Baleno, Honda Jazz are some of the probable competition of the car. The Hyundai Elite i20 still beats every other car in terms of overall quality and value for money proposition. It is slightly on the expensive side with a price tag between Rs.6.49 lakh to Rs.8.30 lakh but is a sure bang for buck product.

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