Crossover looks coupled to a new three-cylinder engine are very on message. Does it communicate to Al Suttie?
1 – A 20mm increase in ride height and some rufty-tufty plastic protection and, hey presto, Hyundai has a small crossover.
2 – The extra ground clearance will not see the Active tackle tougher turf than the standard car, but it looks good in the car park.
3 – There’s a firmer edge to the Active’s suspension over the normal i20’s, which improves handling but at the small expense of comfort.
4 – Still, the Active is good to drive and has all of the practicality of the i20 plus a lengthier list of standard kit.
5 – Included with the Active are all-round parking sensors, DAB radio, 17-inch alloys and cruise control.
6 – It also comes with the new 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol motor and this is the real reason to choose the Active.
7 – With 100hp and 127lb ft of shove on tap, it feels brisk and eager in that typically three-pot engine way.
8 – The five-speed manual ‘box has an easy, accurate action and the ratios are well matched to the engine’s abilities.
9 – Okay, it’s not quick, with 0-62mph in 10.9 seconds, but it’s fun to work the engine to get the best from it and that makes the Active enjoyable.
10 – Drive more sedately and economy of 58.9mpg and 110g/km emissions better a Captur with the 90hp TCe engine.
