Vehicle Overview
The 2008 Hyundai i20 is a supermini hatchback introduced to replace the Getz, offering a modern design, improved interior space, and refined driving dynamics. Developed primarily for the European market, it competes with the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Opel Corsa, emphasizing build quality, comfort, and value.
| Segment | Supermini Hatchback (B-segment) |
| Body Style | 5-door hatchback |
| Model Year | 2008 (first generation) |
| Trim Levels | Classic, Comfort, Style, Sport |
Key Specifications
| Specification | 1.2 L Kappa MPI | 1.4 L Kappa MPI | 1.6 L Gamma MPI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1,248 cc SOHC 16-valve | 1,396 cc SOHC 16-valve | 1,591 cc SOHC 16-valve |
| Power | 78 PS (57 kW) @ 6,000 rpm | 100 PS (74 kW) @ 6,000 rpm | 115 PS (85 kW) @ 6,300 rpm |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | 136 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | 156 Nm @ 4,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual | 5-speed manual / 4-sp auto | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| 0–100 km/h | ~14.5 s | ~12.5 s | ~11.0 s |
| Top Speed | 163 km/h | 175 km/h | 183 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (combined) | 5.4 L/100 km | 6.1 L/100 km | 6.8 L/100 km |
| CO₂ Emissions | ~129 g/km | ~144 g/km | ~160 g/km |
| Curb Weight | ~1,040 kg | ~1,105 kg | ~1,140 kg |
Exterior Design
| Fluidic Sculpture Styling | Hyundai’s new design language with flowing lines and sculpted panels. |
| Headlights | Swept-back multi-reflector units integrated into the front wings. |
| Grille | Prominent trapezoidal “cascading” grille framed by body-colored bumper. |
| Sport Trim | 16″ alloy wheels, body-color door mirrors, and side skirts. |
| Dimensions | Length 3,950 mm; Width 1,720 mm; Height 1,520 mm; Wheelbase 2,570 mm. |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
| Cabin Quality | Soft-touch dashboard top, silver-accent trim, and durable cloth upholstery. |
| Seating | Supportive front buckets and split-folding rear bench (60:40). |
| Space | Class-competitive headroom and legroom for four adults; generous boot (295 L). |
| Ergonomics | Driver-centric controls, large door bins, and adjustable steering column. |
Features & Infotainment
| Audio | CD/MP3 player with AUX input standard on Comfort and above. |
| Climate | Manual air-conditioning from Comfort trim; automatic climate control on Style. |
| Convenience | Electric front windows, central locking, and remote key fob on higher trims. |
| Instrumentation | Central speedo with flanking tachometer and fuel/temp gauges. |
Safety & Ratings
| Euro NCAP | 4-star rating (2009 test). |
Standard Safety
Dual front airbags
ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) on Comfort+
Side-impact door beams
| Optional | Front side and full-length curtain airbags on Style/Sport. |
Driving Performance
1.2 L Engine: Suited for city driving with smooth low-end torque; relaxed on highways.
1.4 L & 1.6 L Engines: Provide sprightlier acceleration and more effortless overtaking.
| Ride & Handling | Independent MacPherson struts front and torsion beam rear for compliant ride; minimal body roll. |
| Steering | Electric-assist with light urban maneuvering and adequate feedback at speed. |
Fuel Efficiency
1.2 L: ~5.4 L/100 km combined (~52 mpg UK).
1.4 L: ~6.1 L/100 km.
1.6 L: ~6.8 L/100 km.
| Real-World | Drivers report within 10% of stated figures in mixed driving. |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
| Boot | 295 L behind seats; 1,042 L with rear seats folded flat. |
| Storage | Deep glovebox, centre console bin, and door map pockets. |
| Visibility | Good outward view; large windscreen and rear pillars minimal blind spots. |
| Urban Friend | 10.2 m turning circle and compact dimensions simplify city parking. |
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty (Original) | 5 years / unlimited mileage in many markets. |
| Service Intervals | 15,000 km or annually; low-cost parts and wide dealer network. |
| Reliability | Earned reputation for solid build and low ownership costs. |
Price & Value for Money
Launch Pricing (UK)
1.2 Classic: ~£9,500
1.4 Comfort: ~£10,800
1.6 Style: ~£12,800
1.6 Sport: ~£13,800
| Value | Underpriced relative to rivals, with strong equipment on mid/high trims. |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Launch Price | Engine | Boot (L) | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai i20 | £9,500–£13,800 | 1.2–1.6 L | 295 / 1,042 | Equipment levels/value |
| Ford Fiesta | £10,000–£14,000 | 1.25–1.6 L | 295 / 1,090 | Driving dynamics |
| Volkswagen Polo | £11,000–£15,000 | 1.2–1.4 L TSI | 280 / 952 | Build quality |
| Opel Corsa | £10,200–£14,200 | 1.0–1.4 L | 285 / 1,020 | Ride comfort |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Attractive “fluidic” styling for its class
Spacious cabin and versatile load space
Comprehensive warranty and low running costs
Good equipment levels, especially on Comfort/Style trims
Cons
Base 1.2 L engine can feel underpowered on motorway
Torsion-beam rear limits ultimate ride finesse
Hard plastics in lower trims
Sport trim’s firmer suspension may unsettle on rough roads
Overall Rating
4.1 / 5 stars
A compelling supermini that delivers style, space, and value—making it a strong contender in the competitive B-segment.
Final Verdict
The 2008 Hyundai i20 is ideal for urban drivers and small families seeking a stylish, practical hatchback with solid reliability and low total cost of ownership. Its modern design and generous equipment make it a savvy choice against more established rivals.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Hyundai i20 is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Hyundai i20 good for UK roads?
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What should I check before ordering?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.