The Hyundai i20 I (PB) 1.4, produced between 2009 and 2012, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the European subcompact hatchback segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the first generation i20 lineup (PB), it aimed to provide a balance of affordability, practicality, and reasonable performance. The i20, as a whole, was designed to challenge established players like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio, offering a compelling package with a generous warranty and increasingly refined build quality. This 1.4-liter variant served as a popular choice for buyers seeking a step up from the base 1.2-liter engine, offering improved acceleration and highway cruising ability without the higher cost of the range-topping trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i20 |
| Generation | i20 I (PB) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (101 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2-6.0 l/100 km (45.2 – 39.2 US mpg, 54.3 – 47.1 UK mpg, 19.2 – 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 122-140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 4200 rpm (101.05 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FA |
| Engine displacement | 1396 cm3 (85.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 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 | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i20 1.4 was the Hyundai G4FA engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The G4FA was a relatively simple and robust design, prioritizing reliability and fuel efficiency over outright performance. It produced 101 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine’s design focused on providing adequate power for everyday driving situations, rather than sporty acceleration. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a fairly conventional gear ratio spread. While an automatic transmission was available in some markets, it wasn’t commonly paired with the 1.4L engine.
Driving Characteristics
The i20 1.4 offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from a standstill to 60 mph took around 11 seconds, which was adequate for urban and suburban driving but not particularly brisk. The engine felt relatively strained at higher speeds, especially when fully loaded. The 5-speed manual transmission was light and easy to use, but the gear ratios weren’t optimized for maximizing performance. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface well. However, the handling wasn’t particularly sharp or engaging, prioritizing comfort over sporty dynamics. Compared to the base 1.2-liter engine, the 1.4 offered noticeably improved responsiveness, making it easier to merge onto highways and overtake slower traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i20 1.4 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and a basic audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels, such as the Style or Comfort variants, added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple and functional design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The i20 I (PB) utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing light and easy steering feel. The relatively lightweight construction of the i20 helped to contribute to its fuel efficiency and manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i20 1.4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its value for money, spacious interior, and generous warranty. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked refinement and that the handling wasn’t particularly engaging. Compared to the 1.2-liter version, the 1.4 offered a noticeable improvement in performance, but at a slightly higher price point. Compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, the i20 offered a more affordable alternative with a longer warranty, but it didn’t quite match their levels of refinement or driving dynamics. Fuel economy was competitive, typically ranging from 39.2 to 45.2 US mpg.
Legacy
The Hyundai i20 I (PB) 1.4 proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The G4FA engine is known for its robustness and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these i20s continue to be popular choices for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and dependable hatchback. While not a performance icon, the 1.4-liter engine provided a good balance of fuel efficiency and usability, making it a sensible choice for everyday transportation. The i20’s success helped to establish Hyundai as a serious contender in the European subcompact car market, paving the way for future generations of the i20 to build upon its strengths.
