As the third model variant of its i20 small car, Hyundai is introducing the SUV-like i20 Active after the five- and three-door models. The small crossover has been available since mid-April and wants to impress with its striking look and slightly raised seating position. In conjunction with the new, 74 kW / 100 hp three-cylinder turbo, the little SUV costs from 17.100 euros.
The i20 Active exudes a breath of adventure: roof rails, optical underride protection, plastic planks on the fenders and on the sides and a slightly modified front and rear design compared to the five-door model make the new one appear a bit more robust. But like most small SUVs, the Hyundai is just a nice illusion. There is no all-wheel drive, exits on unpaved roads are not recommended. After all, the ground clearance was increased from 17 to 19 centimeters here. The two additional centimeters ensure an elevated driver's seat position, which is one reason why these pseudo SUVs are also so popular in bonsai form.
For propulsion, Hyundai only offers three engines for the Active: the new 1,0-liter three-cylinder turbo in two output levels and the well-known 66 kW / 90 diesel. The three-cylinder developed in Hyundai's own R&D center in Rüsselsheim has an output of 74 kW / 100 PS or 88 kW / 120 PS. In the more powerful version it is coupled to a six-speed gearbox, the 100 hp variant is content with five forward gears. The engine replaces the previous 100 HP vacuum cleaner and is used in all i20 models. So far it is only available with hand controls. A six-speed automatic should be available with the facelift of the i20. It will also find its way into the new compact i30, which will debut in 2017.
The small turbo mobilizes significantly more torque than the replaced 1,4 liter vacuum cleaner. Instead of 134 Nm, 172 Nm now provide comparatively good pulling power for both aggregate levels. At the same time, consumption values drop by around 20 percent.
100 or 120 hp: the Active does not mutate into a sports car. Like the five-door car favored by customers - around 85 percent of orders are placed on it - it is commoditized, typical of small cars. If you like it a bit brisk, the stronger unit is better served. The standard sprint is a little quicker (10,4 instead of 10.9 seconds) and 183 instead of 176 km / h are possible on the highway. For this you have to accept a slightly higher consumption. Hyundai specifies 5,1 liters on average, which is 0,3 liters more than the comparably equipped 100 hp versions. During the first, lively test rounds, the on-board computer showed 6,3 liters. A value that is okay for 120 hp. In addition, the engine was quiet and extremely quiet. The typical three-cylinder whirring could hardly be heard.
The Active can also score in terms of its interior economy. Like the five-door hatchback, the crossover shows its lush side. The space is not only generous in the front seats, it is also airy in the rear - at least when there are only two people in the back seat. The trunk volume varies between 326 and 1.042 liters. When you fold the back seat back, a fairly level loading floor is created.
Even in the “Classic” basic version, the Active is not stingy. The basic price for 17.100 euros includes air conditioning, RDS radio, power windows in the front, on-board computer and central locking with radio remote control. However, since the i20 and thus also the Active trend for buyers goes to the higher equipment lines, most customers should opt for the Trend and Syle levels. Seat and steering wheel heating, audio system with Bluetooth hands-free system, cruise control, lane departure warning system, LED daytime running lights and 16-inch alloy wheels are standard with Trend. The highest equipment level can only be combined with the 120 PS petrol engine (from 21.750 euros) or the diesel (from 22.400 euros). Among other things, it comes with electrically folding exterior mirrors, light and rain sensors, front parking aids and automatic climate control. The 17-inch model, LED rear lights, a radiator grille bordered with chrome and dark-tinted windows from the B-pillar ensure the “big” appearance. The five-year guarantee is always included ex works. (Elfriede Munsch / SP-X)
