Hyundai Elite i20: 10,000km Long Term Review

Even today, hatchbacks form a major chunk of sales in the Indian car market. And with  established players like the Maruti Suzuki Swift, it isn’t easy for manufacturers to make a mark for themselves in this crowded segment. But the Hyundai Elite i20 has successfully done that and is among the top 5 selling cars in India today. And having spent close to six months with the car we have come to realise why  the Hyundai Elite i20 has become such a big hit with Indians.

Knowing that our long term Elite i20 was scheduled to go back, I thought it was just the right time to make a short road trip. And on trips like these, the actual comfort of a car comes to fore. And I must add here that the back seats of the Elite i20 are wide enough to accommodate three adults comfortably.

The route planned had a good mix of long straights and twisties which the Hyundai Elite i20 tackled with absolute poise. Yes, a little more feedback on the steering wheel would have done a world of good as far as overall handling is concerned. However, it is on such highway hauls that the sixth cog really shines through. It not only ensures good efficiency but also makes it easy to cruise at three digit speeds on the highway. 

In the city though, due to the tall gear ratios, the Elite i20 doesn’t really flaunt phenomenal efficiency figures returning just about 12.5kmpl.

But leaving that aside it is easy to see that with the Elite i20, Hyundai has taken the game to an all new level. From attractive looks, good features, ample of space and a good engine the Hyundai Elite i20 has it all, and it is no wonder that it is among the most awarded cars in the automotive industry this year. Moreover, it is one of the few cars in its segment that actually can seat three at the back with utmost ease. And then the quality of interiors and fit and finish is even better than some of the sub-4 metre sedans. So after having used it in the long run, is it still a good buy over more frugal offerings in the market? Well, the answer is definitely yes! 

Date Acquired: September 2014

Total km till date: 11,967km

Fuel consumed:  62.76 litres (1023km since last report)

Efficiency: 16.3kmpl (As tested)

Cheers: Looks, Space, Interiors

Sneers: Fuel efficiency