The Hyundai i20 I (PB) 1.4 Automatic, 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), this variant aimed to provide a balance of affordability, practicality, and ease of use with its four-speed automatic transmission. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and convenient city car without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel efficiency. The i20 PB was Hyundai’s replacement for the Getz, and marked a clear improvement in design, build quality, and overall refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i20 |
| Generation | i20 I (PB) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (101 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 4200 rpm (101.05 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1053 kg (2321.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 512 kg (1128.77 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 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic 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 Automatic is the Hyundai G4FA engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to reasonable efficiency and smooth operation. The G4FA produces 101 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and low-end torque, making it suitable for everyday driving. Paired with this engine is a traditional four-speed automatic transmission. While not offering the efficiency or responsiveness of more modern transmissions, it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The transmission was designed for smooth shifts, but it wasn’t known for particularly quick acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The i20 1.4 Automatic offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, resulted in a noticeable difference in acceleration compared to the five-speed manual version. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and ease of driving rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.3 seconds, and top speed was limited to 106.88 mph. The engine felt adequate for city driving and highway cruising, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. The steering was light and easy, making it maneuverable in tight spaces, but lacked significant feedback. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards comfort and convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i20 1.4 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels, often denoted by additional packages, could add features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a trip computer, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a focus on durability rather than luxury. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use.
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 comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in some body roll during cornering. The relatively lightweight construction of the i20 helped to mitigate the effects of the less powerful engine and the automatic transmission.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i20 1.4 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable city car. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness and its impact on fuel economy compared to the manual version. Compared to other subcompact hatchbacks of the time, such as the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo, the i20 offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. The 1.4-liter engine provided adequate performance for most drivers, but those seeking more spirited driving experience were better served by the higher-output engines available in the i20 lineup. Fuel economy was respectable, averaging around 36.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Hyundai i20 I (PB) 1.4 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The G4FA engine is known for its durability, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not cutting-edge, is generally robust. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear, such as suspension components and brake pads. Today, these i20s represent an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a dependable city car. The i20’s success helped to establish Hyundai as a major player in the European automotive market, paving the way for future models and advancements in technology and design.
