A premium Hatchback, value for money

I just returned from oversees (after a gap of 7 years) and had decided to replace my Santro which was more than 8 years old and had performed well.

After collecting various inputs from the dealers, reading thru reviews and opinion from friends I did some elimination before selecting i20.

Many people get confused easily between Petrol and Diesel. Unless you are driving more than 2500 KMs per month diesel car does not make economic sense as it is around 80K to 100K expensive, cost of maintenance is atleast 20% more and the intangible factor of driving comfort.

I then eliminated a sedan considering the city traffic and parking issues at home. Also I do not require a large boot (again a misconception among people to go for a large boot which they hardly use) and hence prefered for a hatch back, Since i was driving a santro I wanted to go for a premium hatch back. They were

Honda jazz - Eliminated since it is not a successfull model in India and also globally. The design is not stylish and lacks the appeal of a premium hatchback

VW Polo - Never buy the very first car introduced by any mfg, it is still to prove on Indian roads. I am sure there are other good models to follow, need to wait and watch for another year. Also there are no service outlets except for 1 or 2 in just metros. Spares availability and cost is higher.

Suzuki - Am afraid there are no premium hatch backs. Swift VXi comes closer but the exterior styling and interiors sucks, but its worth the money. I avoided this as it will be another swift on the road.

Skoda Fabia - Again, no large service networks and unknown maintenance costs.

Fiat Punto - Helpless Fiat guys by placing their cars alongside Tatas in their showrooms, No one to care to sell and the support sucks (right from Palio days). They are good cars (shame that they supply engines to all but still unsuccessfull) but support is a major? Hyundai i20 - I then looked at i20 finally and test drove. I was floored by the features and hence wanted to pursue it closer and finally decided to buy.

 

Exterior

Definitely a head turning car, great styling when viewed from front and side.

 

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

Probably the best among all available cars. Very soothing interiors, feature rich and ergonomically and aesthetically designed controls (AC controls, ORVM adjustments, adjustable steerings etc).

 

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

Hv driven for 1000Km, very good performance overall. But slightly sluggish at 2 and 3 rd gears. Understood the engine tuning was done to improve fuel efficiency but definitely manageable. Once it reaches 60km and 4 - 5 gears it is very good and responsive, Easy and smooth gear shifts, initial fuel economy indicates around 15 to 18km on long drive with ACs ON.

 

Ride Quality & Handling

The wheel base is the longest among all cars and is slightly larger than verna, Handling is easier thru EPS and feels very sturdy on the curves and long strech.

 

Final Words

This car is for people who have driven for a while, knows the nuances of driving and who prefers feature rich and riding comfort with a bit of compromise on the initial response. This is definitely the best of the premium hatch back.

 

Areas of improvement  

I would be happy if Hyundai is coming out with a 1.4 L petrol a min for people who prefer a perrier response but of course the mileage has to be compromised.

Styling, Interiors and feature richA bit expensive