The Hyundai i20 CVT has finally begun arriving in dealerships, and is priced between Rs 7.04 lakh and Rs 8.16 lakh for the Magna and Asta variants respectively (all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi). This is true to our previous report on Hyundai’s introduction of a CVT option on its flagship hatchback.
The pre-facelift model had the option of an automatic (a standard 4-speed torque converter) transmission paired to a 1.4-litre petrol engine. On the facelift i20, Hyundai is looking to take advantage of Indian vehicular tax laws (applicable to sub-4-metre cars with engines under 1200cc) by using the 83hp, 1197cc petrol engine, which has resulted in slightly more competitive pricing compared to the older i20’s automatic. Compared to their respective manual counterparts, the automatic versions are dearer by slightly over Rs 1 lakh.
Besides the introduction of the CVT automatic, there are no other changes on these variants. The i20’s rivals in the premium hatchback segment all come with the option of an automatic; the Maruti Baleno gets a petrol-CVT combo (Rs 7.10-8.41 lakh) and so does the Honda Jazz (Rs 7.71-8.47 lakh; all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi). At this price point, the i20 CVT undercuts both its competitors. Stay tuned for a comparison between the three premium hatchbacks to know which one rules the roost.