Ford Fiesta vs Renault Clio vs Hyundai i20: which one has the best infotainment system?

By Chad Lückhoff

We compare the infotainment system found in the Ford Fiesta against the Renault Clio and Hyundai i20.

 

Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium

R 304 900

The 2019 Ford Fiesta is fitted with the latest version of the well-known SYNC system. SYNC3 is a considerable improvement over previous generations and is now mated to an 8-inch touchscreen.

Much of the frustration encountered with earlier SYNC systems is done away with thanks to the touchscreen interface and simplified tactile interface. Flanking the 5 shortcut buttons that rest below the screen are two rotary dials for power, volume and tuning functions.

The menu layout is more streamlined and logical than earlier versions and the screen supports multi-touch and pinch-to-zoom capabilities.

While the Fiesta no longer has CD functionality, you still get Bluetooth, USB and AUX input connectivity options along with voice control. The SYNC3 system fitted to the Fiesta is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-equipped via a tethered line to the USB input.

Our Rating: 

7/10

 

Renault Clio 88kW turbo Expression auto

R 283 900 

While the current Renault Clio is due for replacement and shouldn't be compared directly with the new Fiesta, Renault has made sure that their tech and infotainment systems remain current and contemporary.

Expression, Dynamique and GT-Line and R.S. models benefit from the MediaNav touchscreen infotainment system that utilizes a 7-inch touchscreen with a rotary dial for volume and steering column controls. It is devoid of CD capabilities but retains Bluetooth, USB and AUX inputs.

The steering column controls are the one detraction from an otherwise well-rounded system and require some practice before one learns where all the controls are, as the controller unit is hidden from sight when seated in the driver's seat. 

MediaNav includes navigation as standard.

Our Rating:

7/10

 

Hyundai i20 1.4 Fluid auto

R 292 900 

While similar in price to the competitors here, the Hyundai i20 infotainment system feels a little dated in comparison. The system employs a 7-inch touchscreen as the primary interface while banks of push-buttons on either side of the screen, along with two rotary dials in the upper corners, handle shortcuts and the regular fray of power, volume, tuning and selection duties.

The menu system initially appears to be complex and illogical at first, but after a short while, the user will become accustomed to the menu hierarchy.

The system accepts Bluetooth, AUX and USB inputs for music streaming and navigation is an optional extra which can be purchased from the dealership at any time at a cost of R2 500 for the Navigation SD Card.

Our Rating: 

6/10

 

See how the Fiesta fares against two other competitors: Volkswagen Polo vs Mazda 3 vs Ford Fiesta Infotainment

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