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The Hyundai i20 Active Is India's Answer to the Sandero Stepway

Hyundai has just introduced a new model called the i20 Active in India that we think might prove popular with Europeans if launched. It's basically a jacked up 5-door supermini with protective body cladding, which makes it similar to the Skoda Fabia Scout, VW Polo Cross and the Sandero Stepway from Renault's Dacia brand.
Hyundai i20 Active 23 photos
Photo: Hyundai
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Small crossovers are very popular in Europe at the moment, taking the MPV's place as the go-to mode of transportation for the family man. Most models have bespoke bodies, but for cost reasons some companies just change what they have to cope with rougher conditions.

The i20 Active is based on the new i20 model, but it's also 10mm longer, 26mm wider and 50mm taller than the standard car. Most of that is down to a body kit that flares everything up, but the increase in ground clearance comes with very real benefits.

Like all of its rivals, the i20 Active is front-wheel driven and won't be able to deal with mud or snow. But Hyundai says revisions to the gearbox and suspension have been made.

Cosmetically, it's not a bad looking machine, with 16-inch alloy wheels and benefitting from LED daytime running lights, cornering lights and silver roof rails. The interior carries over some of the color accents from the paintwork.

In total, there are 3 trim levels available in combination with two engine choices. The petrol model uses an 82 hp 1.2-liter unit mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, while the diesel variant gets the 90 hp 1.4-liter unit mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Even the basic models comes with decent features, including central locking, manual air conditioning, plus front and rear power windows. But it doesn't come with any airbags in India and the steering wheel is fixed in place. A full-spec model that costs about 40% more gets leather, auto headlights and wipers, a fully-adjustable steering wheel and more airbags.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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