Hyundai's new bargain supermini

With more buyers considering downsizing, the supermini market has never been more important and the latest entrant into the segment is Hyundai's i20.

Hyundai is marketing the i20 on value-for-money, while also stating that its new car competes on an even footing in terms of quality, safety and dynamics.

All models in the i20 range will come with air conditioning, six airbags, active head rests, remote central locking, electric front windows, an aux-in socket and the reassurance of a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty - the latter item unique in the i20's class.

The i20 range is divided into entry-level Classic trim, Comfort (thought to be the best seller) and Style, with the higher grades receiving their own alloy wheels and set of equipment.

Two new petrol and diesel engines make their debut on the i20. The 77bhp 1.2-litre petrol unit is all-new and returns 54.3mpg and CO₂ emissions of 124g/km.

Even better economy and emissions figures are achievable from the new 1.4-litre turbodiesel CRDi engine, available in 74- and 89bhp tunes. Emissions figures for these are 116- and 118g/km respectively, while combined cycle economy is quoted as 64.2- and 62.8mpg.

Prices start at £8,195 for the three-door 1.2 Classic with a £450 premium for the five-door models. UK sales of the five-door start in January, while the three-door will arrive in April.

Shane O' Donoghue