Active thinking
Hyundai adds crossover look to their attractive i20 supermini
Hyundai currently lacks a small crossover in its strong lineup and until one arrives the Korean company has filled the gap by introducing an Active version of its popular i20 model.
The current i20 arrived just over a year ago so the range is fresh and the Active introduced a couple of months ago features a new 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine.
It also boasts attractive and rugged styling changes to make it appeal to customers who want a small crossover.
The jacked-up Active enjoys a mini SUV-like appearance thanks to its body cladding, chunky bumpers, front and rear skid plates, roof rails and raised ride height.
At £1,200 more than the SE model on which it is based, the Active represents good value for money.
You certainly get a lot of kit for your cash, including 17-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, a DAB radio, Bluetooth, cruise control, electrically operated door mirrors with integrated indicators, electric windows, split folding rear seats, air conditioning, projector headlights with a front cornering function, rear parking sensors and a height and reach adjustable steering column.
The interior is well built and the cabin is spacious and comfortable if a bit dark. The instruments and controls are well laid out and easy to use and operate.
No sat/nav is offered but there is a smartphone docking station on top of the dash that will enable you to get directions.
The only engine offered in the Active is the new 1.0-litre threecylinder turbo petrol which produces 99bhp.
It is linked to a five-speed manual gearbox and is much more refined than the former 1.4 engine it replaces.
Good for a top speed of 109mph, the punchy little unit reaches 62mph in 10.9 seconds. It has a claimed combined economy of 58.9mpg and emissions of 110g/km.
It feels much the same to drive as its sibling supermini although the suspension has been stiffened a little to balance the increased ride height and body roll.
The steering is sharp and the suspension deals well with our varied road surfaces. All the latest safety features are fitted and the price of £15,225 includes Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty, which includes five years of roadside assistance and five years of annual health checks.
The only option fitted to the test car was pearl paint which added £550 to the price.
With only front-wheel-drive available, the Active does not pretend to be any kind of off-roader but it will appeal to young and lifestyle drivers who like the looks without the penalties involved.