The Hyundai i20 II Active (facelift 2018) 1.4, producing 101 horsepower, represents a specific configuration within the second generation of Hyundai’s popular subcompact hatchback. Introduced as part of the facelift in 2018 and continuing through 2020, this variant aimed to bridge the gap between the base models and the more performance-oriented options. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and a slightly more engaging driving experience than the entry-level engines. The i20 II Active, with its crossover-inspired styling cues, was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a compelling alternative in the competitive B-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i20 |
| Generation | i20 II Active (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (101 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 136 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 | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 3500 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Kappa / G4LC |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 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-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1085-1250 kg (2392.02 – 2755.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 350-515 kg (771.62 – 1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 326 l (11.51 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1024 l (36.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4065 mm (160.04 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1980 mm (77.95 in.) |
| Height | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1517 mm (59.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 843 mm (33.19 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 652 mm (25.67 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i20 Active 1.4 is Hyundai’s Kappa G4LC engine, a 1.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Hyundai’s Kappa family, known for its relatively lightweight construction and focus on fuel efficiency. The G4LC utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves. This CVVT system optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both performance and fuel economy. The engine produces 101 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine’s relatively modest output is delivered through a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was available on other i20 variants, the 1.4-liter engine was primarily paired with the manual gearbox in many markets.
Driving Characteristics
The i20 Active 1.4 with the manual transmission offers a reasonably engaging driving experience for its class. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.6 seconds, and top speed is rated at 184 km/h (114.33 mph). The engine feels responsive enough for everyday driving, with adequate torque for merging onto highways and overtaking slower vehicles. However, it’s not a particularly powerful engine, and drivers will need to downshift to maintain momentum when climbing hills or carrying a full load. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing precise shifts and a decent spread of gear ratios. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter engines available in the i20 range, the 1.4 feels less urgent, but it offers better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i20 Active 1.4 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. The “Active” trim level added crossover-inspired styling elements such as plastic body cladding, raised ride height, and roof rails. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The i20 Active 1.4 utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i20 Active 1.4 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable subcompact hatchback. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and decent level of standard equipment. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked outright power and that the interior materials were somewhat basic. Compared to other trims in the i20 lineup, the 1.4 offered a compelling value proposition for buyers who prioritized fuel economy and affordability over performance. It competed with other popular subcompact hatchbacks such as the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio.
Legacy
The Hyundai i20 II Active 1.4 has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The Kappa G4LC engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While not a particularly exciting engine, it is generally dependable and capable of covering high mileage with proper maintenance. The i20 Active 1.4 remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient subcompact hatchback. Its combination of affordability, reliability, and decent features makes it a compelling option in the used car market today.
