Overview

The crossover segment continues to expand as more and more manufacturers launch new cars to fill every niche. Here’s the latest addition to join the fold: the Hyundai i20 Active.

It’s kind of a halfway-house between hatchback and SUV – ideal for those who don’t need off-road capabilities but want some of the associated styling.

Set to open up a new customer base for the Korean firm, Hyundai is hoping the i20 Active will introduce younger buyers to the brand and entice them away from cars like the Fiat Panda Trekking, Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa.

Half of parts unique to i20 Active

While based on its five-door i20 hatchback sibling, more than 50 percent of the exterior parts are unique.

The suspension’s ride height has been raised 20mm, there are new front and rear bumpers with integrated skid plates and a subtle rear spoiler.

Helping to toughen up the look of the i20 Active further are the side claddings, wheel arch mouldings and silver roof rails.

Other details that set the Active apart from the i20 family include a reversed grille design in gloss black, a silver fuel cap cover and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Expensive pricing

Although Hyundai says neither the Nissan Juke, Suzuki Vitara or eye-catching Citroen C4 Cactus are rivals to the i20 Active, you cannot fail to notice that all three of them are actually cheaper and some come better-equipped as standard too.

Its equipment levels lie between SE and Premium in the i20 range, and no optional extras are available bar the paintwork.

Standard equipment includes Bluetooth, DAB radio, cruise control, 17-inch alloys, basic air-con controls and LED daytime running lights. It’s a shame to see more modern-day technology like touchscreen infotainment systems and automatic lights and wipers missing.

Not for off-road

Despite its rugged looks, the i20 Active isn’t a car to stray off the beaten track and there are no plans to launch an all-wheel drive version either. Apart from a little more ground clearance, there’s nothing to improve its off-road ability over the hatchback.

There’s just one engine choice: an all-new 1-litre 98bhp petrol that is surprisingly characterful.

Like the i20 hatchback, the Active is spacious and packed with practical features ideal for everyday family life.

Could Hyundai’s new part-crossover, part-hatchback be your next car? Continue reading our full Hyundai i20 Active review for everything you need to know.