More than meets the eye: The Hyundai ix20
Hyundai’s ground-breaking ix20 still has plenty to offer the savvy consumer. It’s a reasonably priced, feature-packed car with both style and practicality placed centre stage.
You can choose from three grades: Classic, Active and Style. This system helps you choose the perfect option for your budget, while still getting the features you want.
Despite its apparently seamless construction, the ix20 has more space than you might expect, with a good amount of height for taller people. It also comes with plenty of legroom and boot space. However, if you need some extra space for luggage, it’s possible to slide the rear seats forward and fold them flat, which provides extra flexibility.
A panoramic sunroof is a great addition to the driving experience, helping you make the most of scenic routes.
The ix20 even has eyes in the back of its head, or at least the next big thing. The Active and Style grades come equipped with rear parking sensors that make sure you don’t hit anything when parking in awkward spaces by alerting you to the hazard.
Style and Active versions of the ix20 are equipped with bluetooth connectivity and voice control. This means you can stream music from your phone, as well as changing radio stations and other settings without taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road.
There are three engines available: a 1.4 litre petrol engine, as well as a 1.4 litre diesel for the Classic, and a 1.6 litre diesel for the Style and Active grades. The ix20 is very fuel efficient, thanks to innovative Blue Technologies such as intelligent Stop and Go. This automatically turns the engine off when the car is stationary, then back on again when you press the accelerator, minimising wastage.
Safety has also got hi-tech with the Electronic Stability Programme, which automatically calibrates the throttle to improve the driver’s control of the vehicle.
On-the-road prices for the ix20 start at £12,515.