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

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,541 off RRP*Used from £11,895
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,886
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £16,100
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £4,685 off RRP*Used from £16,811
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 grant for new EVs sold
News
15 Jul 2025