Hyundai i20 1.0 Kappa review, test drive

What is it?

Hyundai recently showcased its new range of engines at the 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi. The line-up included an all-new 1.0-litre Kappa unit which, according to reports, is likely to make its way into the popular i20 here. While the hatchback is currently available in India with a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.4-litre diesel engine, in international markets, the car has already received the new 1.0-litre unit. Our sister publication, Autocar UK, got a chance to drive it and we bring you a glimpse of what the car would feel like from behind the wheel, when it's launched here.

What's it like?

The 1.0-litre engine is a three-cylinder unit and can put out up to 118bhp in some applications, but in the i20, it makes a steady 99bhp. In contrast, the 1.2-litre normally aspirated petrol motor in the i20 sold in India makes 82bhp.

Of course, the three-cylinder has that characteristic hum triples do. It’s quiet enough, but thrummy, endearingly so, as is often the case. Owing to the turbo-charger, the small 1.0-litre unit takes a bit of time to respond. Fortunately, peak torque is accessible from as low down as 1500rpm, although you'd want at least 2000 revs on the clock for it to feel like it’s really on your side; but from then on, it revs cleanly past 6000rpm, and never feels strained.