The Hyundai i20 (PB) facelift, introduced in 2012, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation i20 subcompact hatchback. This version, produced through 2014, aimed to enhance the model’s appeal with revised styling and improved efficiency. Among the engine options available, the 1.1 CRDi variant, producing 75 horsepower, occupied the entry-level position in many European markets. It was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs, particularly in regions with high diesel fuel acceptance and taxation based on engine displacement. This model played a significant role in establishing Hyundai as a competitive force in the European small car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i20 |
| Generation | i20 I (PB facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 CRDi (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.4 kg/Hp, 69.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D3FA |
| Engine displacement | 1120 cm3 (68.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1080 kg (2380.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 295 l (10.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1060 l (37.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3940 mm (155.12 in.) |
| Width | 1710 mm (67.32 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2525 mm (99.41 in.) |
| Front track | 1503 mm (59.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i20 1.1 CRDi was the Hyundai D3FA engine, a three-cylinder diesel powerplant. This engine was part of Hyundai’s U-Line family of small displacement diesel engines. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The D3FA utilized a second-generation common rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine employed a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output for its size. The 1.1-liter displacement was chosen to minimize tax liabilities in many European countries, where vehicle taxation was often linked to engine size. The engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth operation. While an automatic transmission was offered on other i20 variants, it was not available with the 1.1 CRDi engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.1 CRDi engine, producing 75 horsepower, delivered modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 14.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 99.42 mph. The engine’s strength lay in its torque output of 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft), available from 1750-2500 rpm. This provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations, making it suitable for urban commutes and highway cruising. However, it lacked the punch of higher-powered i20 variants, such as the 1.25-liter gasoline engine or the 1.4-liter diesel. The six-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but required frequent shifting when overtaking or climbing hills. The gear ratios were tuned for economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the driving experience was similar, as the engine’s power output was the primary limiting factor.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1 CRDi typically represented the base trim level for the i20 facelift. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively simple design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and parking sensors. Higher trim levels, available with other engine options, offered features like climate control, rear electric windows, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The focus of the 1.1 CRDi trim was on providing essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The i20 facelift utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The chassis was tuned to prioritize ride comfort and stability over sporty handling. The relatively light weight of the 1.1 CRDi variant, at 1080 kg (2380.99 lbs), contributed to its fuel efficiency and manageable handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were present, but were relatively modest in size, reflecting the car’s focus on practicality rather than performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i20 1.1 CRDi was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. It was often praised as a practical and affordable option for urban drivers. However, its modest performance was a common criticism. Compared to other trims in the i20 lineup, the 1.1 CRDi offered the best fuel economy but the slowest acceleration. The 1.25-liter gasoline engine provided more power but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 1.4-liter diesel offered a balance between performance and economy. In terms of reliability, the D3FA engine proved to be generally robust, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure long-term durability. The i20 1.1 CRDi competed with other small diesel hatchbacks, such as the Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TDI and the Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi.
Legacy
The Hyundai i20 1.1 CRDi, while not the most powerful or exciting variant in the lineup, established a reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. The D3FA engine proved to be a durable powerplant, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for an economical and practical city car. The i20 1.1 CRDi played a key role in Hyundai’s success in the European small car segment, demonstrating the brand’s ability to offer competitive products with a strong value proposition. Its focus on efficiency and affordability continues to resonate with buyers today.
