Hyundai has launched the all-new i20 premium hatchback in Nepal. The launch program accompanied by a first drive event was held at Gokarna Forest Resort. The 3rd Gen i20 comes in two variants, Magna & Sportz carrying price tags of Rs 36.96 Lakh and Rs 41.96 respectively, and the initial impression of the Hyundai i20 is excellent.

Let’s start by the looks, the latest i20 looks like nothing else its competition offers. It looks aggressive and that is all down to its striking front. The blacked-out grille is flanked by edgy headlights and fog lamps. Over to the side, the i20 looks sporty thanks to clean lines and short overhangs. Over on the rear, the i20 brings the aggression back with a striking tail light designed that is connected end to end with a light bar. The rear is further made sportier thanks to a faux diffuser that looks great.

Inside the i20 comes with an all-black interior. The variant we drove was the Magna which misses out on touchscreen and auto AC but everything else was amazing. The seats are comfortable and the finishing of the dash and other elements of the cabin is one of the best in class. Powering the third-gen i20 is a 1.2 liter petrol motor mated to a 5-speed manual transmission that makes 83 ps and 117 Nm of peak torque.

The numbers don’t sound much but the i20 develops power low down, you get to power quickly and the car drives enthusiastically. The i20 brings Hyundai’s signature light steering wheel which helps you get into and out of tight places with just your finger maneuvering the steering wheel. The suspension soaks all the bumps easily and the cabin NVH level is arguably the best in class. You will not be disturbed by anything from the outside. The new i20 feels like a proper comeback for the nameplate and the first impressions have been great overall.

Stay with us for a full review in the future.