Hyundai i20 II (GB) (2014 – 2020)

Reliability score : 8.4/10

The second-generation Hyundai i20 (code GB for Europe, IB for India under the name 'Elite i20') marked a major turning point for the Korean manufacturer in the B-segment. Designed at the European R&D center in Rüsselsheim, it stands out with record-breaking interior space for its category, significantly improved finish, and a more mature 'Fluidic Sculpture 2.0' design. The 2018 facelift brought technological updates (touchscreen compatible with CarPlay/Android Auto), the 7DCT dual-clutch gearbox, but most notably marked the discontinuation of diesel engines (CRDi) in Europe due to WLTP standards. Overall, it's an extremely rational, reassuring car, originally covered by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, which often ensured good follow-up within the official network during its first year

✅ Strengths

Excellent overall reliability, very few immobilizing breakdowns
Diesel engines (1.4 CRDi) with very durable timing chains
Rear passenger space and boot volume (326 liters)
Simple and intuitive control ergonomics
5-year manufacturer's warranty which encouraged good initial maintenance

⚠️ Weaknesses

Refinement of the 1.1 CRDi (vibrations and sound of the 3-cylinder diesel)
Hard interior plastics prone to scratches
Imperfect sound insulation on the highway (road noise)
Electric power steering (MDPS) lacking feel and a center point
DPF very sensitive to clogging if the vehicle is only used in the city

🎯 Verdict

The Hyundai i20 (GB) is an extremely rational and reassuring used car choice. If your search focuses on diesel, the 1.4 CRDi 90 hp is by far the best choice: it's a robust, torquey engine with a reliable timing chain. It's perfect for high-mileage drivers. The 1.1 CRDi should be avoided due to its lack of refinement (vibrations). However, be careful: only buy a diesel i20 if you regularly drive on roads or highways. In strictly urban use, the DPF and EGR valve will inevitably clog. If you drive less than 15,000 km/year or do a lot of city driving, opt for the indestructible 1.2 MPI petrol or the more modern 1.0 T-GDi.

Common issues

Encrassement du FAP (Filtre à Particules Diesel) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 200 – 500 € (nettoyage) ; 1 000 – 2 000 € (remplacement)

Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour favoriser la régénération du FAP.

Dysfonctionnement ou encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 150 – 300 € (nettoyage) ; 400 – 800 € (remplacement)

Faire vérifier et nettoyer la vanne EGR lors des entretiens pour prévenir les pannes.

Usure prématurée de l'embrayage (sur boîtes manuelles) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 900 – 1 600 €

Tester l'embrayage à l'achat, adopter une conduite souple pour prolonger sa durée de vie.

Problèmes d'injecteurs diesel High

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 300 – 700 € par injecteur (remplacement)

Utiliser du carburant de qualité et faire vérifier en cas de démarrage difficile ou ratés.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 150
Timing chain	£700 – 1 300 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Clutch	£850 – 1 500
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 200

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.