Used Hyundai i20: Things You Should Consider Before Buying

The Hyundai i20 made its debut in 2008. Since then, the i20 has kept the momentum going, over three generations, by bringing in considerably enhanced features and powertrain choices. The i20 gave people the feel of a sedan but in a more compact and practical hatchback body. Hyundai’s premium hatchback brings a commendable level of comfort and space while balancing the package with good handling and a lengthy feature list. 

Second hand Hyundai i20s are some of the best selling used cars from the brand. If you’re considering a used Hyundai i20 for your next car purchase, here’s some things you should know before you buy one.

Hyundai i20: Model Overview

There have been three generations of the i20 and their three respective facelifts sold in India. The Hyundai i20 offered a choice of petrol and diesel engines, each with a number of sizes and power choices, as well as a choice of transmission. 

The second -gen model was called the Elite i20 to distinguish it from its predecessor. Its successor and third-generation model reverted to the i20 name. It was also offered in an “N Line” performance version with several enhancements to fulfil the needs of enthusiasts looking for a hot hatchback. 

Hyundai discontinued all diesel engine options in the i20 after February 2023, following the enforcement of BS6-2 emission norms. The current Hyundai i20 model, the third-generation facelift, was introduced in September 2023.

First Generation (2008-2014, PB)

Debuting in 2008, the first-gen Hyundai i20 was produced on a new platform, sharing more commonalities with the larger Accent sedan. The premium hatchback offered a cabin that was spacious and featured automatic climate control along with a double-DIN entertainment system. When the first facelifted i20 was launched in March 2012, it brought several safety features like ABS, electronic stability control (ESC) and six airbags—a first for the segment at the time.

In terms of engines, the first-gen i20 offered a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, making 79 bhp and 112 Nm, paired to a 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic transmission was offered with a larger and more powerful 99 bhp, 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The 1.4-litre turbo-diesel engine produced 89 bhp and 220 Nm, and the 5-speed manual transmission initially paired with the i20 diesel, was later upgraded to a 6-speed.

Second Generation (2014-2020, IB)

The “Elite” i20 was the second-generation model, introduced in August 2014, featured relatively smoother and calmer styling with more features and equipment. The second-gen hatchback was larger by 45 mm in length over the first-gen model, also with a longer wheelbase. The ground-clearance was also improved by 5 mm. The second-generation i20 also introduced the i20 Active compact crossover. 

The i20 Active added front and rear skid-plates, side-cladding, roof-rails and cornering lights to the hatchback, but also improved ground clearance by 20 mm, running on larger 16-inch wheels.

Engine choices included the 1.2-litre petrol mated to a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic. The 1.4-litre petrol engine was upgraded with variable valve timing (VTVT), paired with a 4-speed automatic. The 89 bhp, 1.6-litre diesel engine continued with a 6-speed transmission. 

Third Generation (2020-present, BI3)

Hyundai India introduced the third-generation i20 in November 2020. The new model improved on interior space thanks to a 10mm longer wheelbase, came loaded with features like a sunroof and more safety equipment. Inside, there was a new four-spoke steering wheel and a new fully digital information cluster and a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system. 

The 82-bhp, 1.2-litre petrol engine was upgraded to BS6, and paired with a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox. Hyundai introduced the 118 bhp 1.0-litre TGDI three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. The new 1.0-litre Turbo engine was offered with a 6-speed iMT, or a 7-speed DCT. While the 1.5 turbo diesel was initially available, Hyundai discontinued the diesel engine in February 2023. 

Hyundai i20 N Line (2021-Present)

In August 2021, the enthusiast-focused Hyundai i20 N Line arrived with cosmetic and mechanical upgrades. Hyundai introduced its motorsport-inspired signature blue with red accents, and sporty black trims and panels. 

The i20 N-Line used the same 118 bhp 1.0 Turbo engine, which is available with the 6-speed manual, or the 7-speed DCT gearbox options. Since the facelift i20 was launched in September 2023, the Turbo engine is exclusively sold with the N Line variants.

Maintenance and Service Costs of the Hyundai i20

The service cost is an important factor to consider when you buy a second hand Hyundai i20 because it directly impacts the overall cost of ownership. Hyundai India has definitely enhanced the ownership experience over the years with new dealers service centres and the popularity of their models shows the trust customers have in the brand. Here is the average service cost for the first five years of service for the Hyundai i20.

The parts for the Hyundai i20 are easily available as it has been one of the bestselling Hyundai cars in the new and used car market. Finding a Hyundai service centre is easy, and getting your i20 serviced on time will help keep it running smoothly and reliably.

Apart from the periodic service schedule, a second hand Hyundai i20 could be a sparingly used example or even have higher mileage. The latter will require a closer look and a more comprehensive service after 60,000 km or so. That could mean a replacement of parts such as spark plugs, brake pads and even the clutch plate. The following are the costs that may be involved:

Brakes: Maintain sure stopping power by replacing the brake pads at around 30,000 km. The Hyundai i20 brake pads cost around ₹2,500 while disc rotors are more expensive at ₹7,500.

Under the Bonnet: An extensively used Hyundai i20 may need some replacements under the bonnet to keep things going smoothly. The oil and air filters cost ₹470 and ₹1,350 respectively, engine oil is ₹820, the timing chain kit costs about ₹6,000, and spark plugs cost ₹370-400.

Clutch: A hatchback car’s clutch will last for a long time with normal driving but would need to be replaced at around 60,000 km. The Hyundai i20 clutch plate replacement cost is about ₹6,000 plus labour and consumables.

Resale Value of the Hyundai i20

The Hyundai i20 is one of the most popular hatchback cars in India and has garnered an enviable reputation, thus enjoying a high resale value. On an average, an 11-year old Hyundai i20 1.2 Magna Sportz retains about 42% of its original value, whereas a two-year old Hyundai i20 Asta Turbo retains nearly 80% of its value. 

Because of ever-increasing new car prices, a used Hyundai i20 makes a sensible choice for those looking for an affordable and dependable first or second car, or for those looking to upgrade from an old hatchback to a modern and feature-rich premium hatchback. 

The resale value depends upon several factors such as:

Location: The city of registration and use of the car makes a difference as cars from suburbs and cities are valued higher than cars from coastal cities or traffic-dense metros.

Model Year: Newer car models will almost always have a higher resale value than older ones.

Variant: Higher variants including N Line, Asta or Sportz, and the DCT, automatic or diesel models will be much more expensive and even get a higher resale value because of their longer list of features and equipment.

Condition: A well-maintained Hyundai i20 which is free from visible scratches or dents, has been regularly serviced, and has its service history available will have higher resale value.

Mileage: A more sparingly used car with a lower odometer reading will have a higher resale value.

Common Problems with a Hyundai i20

1. Steering: Users taking to car forums report that, in older Hyundai i20 models, the steering feels vague and can develop a rattling sound.
    
2. Power delivery: There are reports of the older Hyundai i20 models facing reduced power or  rougher/inconsistent idling.
    
3. Suspension: First-generation i20 models had a softer suspension, making it inconsistent and even unpredictable when dealing with sudden bumps or undulations.
    

Specifications of the Hyundai i20 (2023–present)

Here are all the specifications you need for the current version of the Hyundai i20 in India.

Conclusion

The Hyundai i20 is a premium family car which is highly practical and is well-equipped. As the i20 is locally produced in India, genuine spare parts are easily available across a vast number of authorised dealers. The long list features and generous cabin space and comfort make it a smart choice. However, before you consider a used i20, ensure to examine all aspects of the car before you buy one.