Hyundai i20October 2008

The i20 replaces Hyundai UK's best selling model ever, the Getz. It's one of the new-generation of Hyundais designed specifically for the European market and meant to morph the budget Korean brand into a mainstream player in the West. Hyundai's timing couldn't be better. Demand for small, economical cars has boomed in recent years here. And the appeal of the i20 is only enhanced by its five-year warranty and cheap price tag.

But the fact that this little Hyundai represents good value for money will surprise no one. The Koreans want it to be considered as a credible alternative to funkier mainstream rivals like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Mazda 2. Considering this, the i20's styling is surprisingly plain and underwhelming. Its shape is elegant enough, but the i20 goes without the flair of the class leaders. The i20's interior would be completely acceptable had this supermini been launched a few years ago. It is certainly an improvement on anything Hyundai has offered before, but the cheap plastics and shiny surfaces make the cabin seem a bit second-class now.

A big positive is the i20's range of frugal and fun engines. The cheapest model to run will be the 1.4-litre diesel, which returns tax-busting 116g/km CO2 emissions and 64mpg fuel economy. But we'd recommend the little 1.2-litre petrol. It's only modestly powerful, but likes being revved and suits this nippy little car better than a diesel. The i20's decent dynamic abilities are also a pleasant surprise. It is much sharper to drive than the old Getz, rolls less and handles predictably beyond the limit. Much of the i20's chassis development was carried out at Hyundai's European hub in Frankfurt. The Germanic influence is obvious in the way this car drives - and mostly it's a good thing.

Except, that is, in terms of ride quality where the i20 will be too firm for many Brits. It's a surprising flaw, which may put off some Getz owners looking to upgrade. In all, the i20's a fair car, which does nothing exceptionally well. With modern rivals like the Mazda 2 and Ford Fiesta so advanced, the i20 already feels a little behind the game. Its cheap entry price and low running costs could win plenty of supermini shoppers over, though. If you're tempted, we'd recommend you take a long test drive first, to make sure you can live with that firm ride.