• 1.0-litre engine is frugal
• Mild-hybrid system no longer available
• Automatic gearbox reduces efficiency

What are the running costs?

While Hyundai might no longer sell mild-hybrid i20s in the UK, the small 1.0-litre petrol engine is still frugal. Hyundai claims 53.2mpg and 120g/km for the manual version, with the automatic version slightly less efficient with figures of 52.3mpg and 122g/km CO2 emissions. 

It is quite odd for Hyundai to stop offering the mild-hybrids in the UK at a time when many manufacturers – including Vauxhall and Peugeot – are introducing the technology to their cars. It’s fairly inexpensive and though doesn’t bring significantly reduced running costs, any differences are worthwhile. 

If you want the lowest running costs, full-hybrid cars like the Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris make the most sense. You can view detailed MPG and CO2 figures on the Hyundai i20 specs page here.

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Servicing and warranty

Hyundai’s five-year warranty isn’t quite as long as the seven-year plan offered by its sister brand Kia – but i20 buyers can cover an unlimited number of miles during that period. Buyers also get a roadside assistance plan and five annual vehicle health checks thrown in as part of the package.

Buyers can use Hyundai’s online tool to specify a tailored service plan for their car. If you don’t do this, an interim service will cost £150 and a full service £270, according to the firm’s website.

Reliability

The Hyundai i20 has only been on sale since 2020, so it’s still too early to make informed judgements about its long-term reliability. Hyundai’s other cars have proven to be pretty bulletproof, though – and we’re expecting a similar record from this supermini.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that every i20 on the road today is still covered by Hyundai’s five-year warranty. So, even if you’re buying nearly new, you won’t have any enormous repair bills to worry about until 2025 at the earliest. Just make sure you take the car back to an approved Hyundai dealer for its services and repairs so you don’t void the warranty.