Skip advert
Advertisement

Hyundai ix20 1.4

Our favourite car in this class still makes a great deal of sense and puts in a strong performance in this test

Can our current class leader defend its crown? We raved about the diesel ix20 when it trumped its rivals last year (Issue 1,138), so now we see if the petrol version puts in a similarly strong perfrmance.

It’s still the style champion in this line-up. Not only is it neatly proportioned, but the ix20 features the kind of details you would expect to find on more expensive machines. Its distinctive headlamps and door mirrors fitted with integral indicator repeaters add a touch of class to the exterior.

Inside, it’s a similar story. You will find spacious dimensions, split sliding rear seats and a panoramic sunroof, while the quality of the fixtures and fittings is first-rate. The classy buttons for the stereo, simple switches for the air-conditioning and clear instrumentation highlight the effort that has gone into designing the interior.

Trim quality is the best on test, and the kit count is a match for the Verso-S and Venga’s. Highlights include Bluetooth connectivity, full iPod integration and a multifunction leather steering wheel, complete with backlit buttons. Forward visibility is aided by the tall driving position, while rear parking sensors compensate for the car’s thick C-pillars.

A cavernous 440-litre boot is the joint biggest here, along with that of the car’s Kia cousin. Plus, a simple false floor allows you to create a flat load space when you fold the rear seats, or it can be lowered to optimise the available capacity.

Despite a meagre 89bhp output, the four-cylinder petrol engine provides decent pace, as long as you don’t mind using the full rev range – peak power and torque are delivered at 6,000rpm and 5,000rpm respectively.

As with all the cars in this test, though, heavy loads or a full complement of passengers will blunt acceleration. Around town, the stop-start system comes into play, too. The Hyundai is the only car in this line-up with the clever fuel-saving kit, and it works with a shift indicator to give strong eco-credentials.

It’s trumped in the official economy standings only by the Toyota. Where the ix20 really scores is on comfort. Despite its close similarity to the Kia, it stands out as the most cosseting option because its suspension was tuned specifically for UK roads.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It does a better job of riding big bumps and coarse surfaces than any of its competitors here. Decent brakes, a light gearshift and numb but accurate steering round off the driving experience.
 
This accomplished performance is backed up by a brilliant five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty and matching roadside assistance package. Factor in the brand’s superb reputation for dealer service, and you’ve got one of the most convincing small family runarounds on the market.

Details

Chart position: 1
WHY: Our class champion will take some beating thanks to its brilliant combination of space, style, value and low running costs.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £18,185Avg. savings £4,614 off RRP*Used from £9,600
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £3,297 off RRP*
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £2,607 off RRP*Used from £16,850
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £4,766 off RRP*Used from £13,850
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Geely EX5 SUV to arrive in October, starting at £32k
Geely EX5 - front

New Geely EX5 SUV to arrive in October, starting at £32k

This new electric SUV is coming soon to the UK from Volvo and Lotus parent company, Geely
News
15 Sep 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Savour the Scandi cool of a Polestar 4 at only £334 a month
Polestar 4 - cornering, low shot

Car Deal of the Day: Savour the Scandi cool of a Polestar 4 at only £334 a month

Fancy something smart and sophisticated? You won’t look back with the Polestar 4. It’s our Deal of the Day for September 13
News
13 Sep 2025
Skoda Enyaq vs Toyota bZ4X: which SUV is the perfect family EV?
Skoda Enyaq vs Toyota bZ4X - front tracking

Skoda Enyaq vs Toyota bZ4X: which SUV is the perfect family EV?

Things don’t stand still in the world of EVs, and Skoda’s Enyaq and Toyota’s bZ4X have both been updated. We put them to the test...
Car group tests
13 Sep 2025