Hyundai i20 Active Diesel (Old Model)

The Hyundai i20 Active Diesel is essentially a cosmetically enhanced version of the Elite i20, designed to appeal to buyers looking for a crossoverSUV-like experience without sacrificing the practicality of a hatchback. It features a 1.4-litre CRDI diesel engine that produces 90 PS of power and 220 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The car boasts a higher ground clearance of 190mm, black body cladding, roof rails, and different bumpers, giving it a more rugged look. Inside, it offers a comfortable cabin with good legroom, dual airbags as standard, and additional features like rear AC vents, lane change indicator, and Android AutoApple CarPlay. The i20 Active is known for its easy driveability, good cabin insulation, and Hyundais reliable after-sales service, making it a solid choice in its segment.

The Hyundai i20 Active Diesel is a compelling option in the compact crossover segment, especially for those who value a blend of style, comfort, and performance. The 1.4-litre CRDI diesel engine is a standout, offering good low-end performance and a refined driving experience, despite the noticeable diesel clatter and vibration that are well-insulated within the cabin. The vehicles higher ground clearance and cosmetic enhancements give it a more rugged appeal without compromising on the ease of use expected from a hatchback. However, the handling is not as sharp as some of its rivals, and the absence of an automatic transmission is a notable omission. Overall, it provides a hassle-free ownership experience, thanks to Hyundais excellent after-sales service and the cars reliability.

The Hyundai i20 Active diesel has been discontinued in India due to the implementation of the Real Driving Emission (RDE) norms effective from April 1, 2023. This decision makes the i20 Active, like most other premium hatchbacks, a petrol-only offering. I think this move might disappoint those who valued the diesels fuel efficiency.

Hyundai updated the i20 Actives interior with features like rear AC vents, lane change indicators, and an engine start/stop button. These additions enhanced the comfort and convenience of the vehicle. I think these updates made the car feel more premium.

In 2019, Hyundai updated the i20 Active with new safety features to comply with mandatory safety norms. These updates included reverse parking sensors, a reverse camera, speed alert system, and driver and passenger seatbelt reminders. The diesel variant of the i20 Active was still available at that time, offering a 1.4-litre U2 CRDi engine. I believe these safety additions were a significant step forward for the model.

The i20 Active diesel came with a range of safety features, including side and curtain airbags on the top-end variant. This emphasis on safety was a welcome addition to the vehicle. I think it was a smart move by Hyundai to prioritize safety in their updates.

In 2018, a heavily camouflaged prototype of the Hyundai i20 Active facelift was spotted testing in South Korea. This hinted at upcoming changes, including possible new alloy wheel designs and sharper creases on the sides. The diesel engine was expected to remain a part of the lineup. Im curious to see how these changes would have impacted the cars overall appeal.

The Hyundai i20 Active Diesel, during its time in the market, was priced competitively. The ex-showroom prices in India started around Rs. 6.38 lakh for the base variant and went up to around Rs. 10.09 lakh for the top-end SX Dual Tone variant. On-road prices would typically include additional costs such as registration, insurance, and other local taxes, pushing the total to around Rs. 7.5 lakh to Rs. 11.5 lakh, depending on the state and city. While it was slightly pricier than the Elite i20, the additional features and cosmetic enhancements justified the extra cost for many buyers.

The Hyundai i20 Active Diesel offers impressive mileage, with an ARAI-certified figure of 21.19 kmpl. In real-world conditions, owners have reported mileage ranging from 12 kmpl to 17 kmpl, which is still quite economical. This makes it a good choice for those concerned about running costs, especially for city driving and occasional long trips.