Facebook no script

The 10 best similar cars to the Hyundai i20

The compact hatchback segment may be on the outs, with consumers favouring crossovers and SUVs more and more, but the segment is not over yet. These vehicles make great first cars and are still largely used in rental fleets. We take a look at the new Hyundai i20's closest rivals in the market.

Buying a Car

Compact Hatch Comparison

Hyundai South Africa has successfully maintained its position of fourth in our local market largely due to its solid offerings and expansive range of vehicle models. Covering the vast majority of automotive segments from sub-compact city hatches to 1-ton LCV's, Hyundai has something for everyone. Recently launched in 2024, Hyundai now offers a new range of its popular i20.

Related: Hyundai i20 (2024) First Drive Review

The outgoing range took with it the Fluid and Motion derivatives, and in their place is now a refreshed lineup featuring the Premium, Executive, and N-line models. With many manufacturers heading towards crossover and SUV offerings, one may be surprised to find that the compact hatch segment is rather busy. Consumers still have a number of options if Hyundai's offering is not to their liking. We have found 10 models still on sale in SA that are similar in spec and size to Hyundai's i20 range.

Hyundai i20 (2024) colour and price guide


Volkswagen Polo 

SA's favourite aspirational vehicle, the Polo, in its many guises, is still a firm choice for local motorists.

R 350 700 - R468 800


Opel Corsa

Stellantis' has also recently released an updated version of the Corsa with a new face and new tech

R374 900 - R 459 900


Citroen C3

Citroen is long been the left-field option for compact hatch drivers and is the first Frenchie on our list. Quirky styling and design aesthetics make this Euro-cool selection.

R308 900 - R378 900


Peugeot 208

The second French manufacturer on our list is the sporty little Peugeot. The 208 has been the go-to for many years for those seeking a sporty and engaging drive.

R337 900 - R 474 900


Renault Clio

The third French connection on our list is the Clio. It its many guises over the years the Clio has maintained its sporty credentials and is still a cool choice for young and old alike.

R 312 995 - R367 900


Suzuki Baleno

Suzuki makes its first appearance on the list with the Baleno. Solid build quality and a keen price have made this a top contender in the segment.

R 299 900 - R 319 900


Kia Rio

Sadly the Rio has been discontinued and is on roll out in SA. If you can get one its best to snap it up as these will soon be gone from our roads.

R 330 995 - R 389 995


Mazda 2

The Mazda2 is a super stylish stunner that holds its own in this busy segment. A timeless dynamic design and superlative tech and features make this another top choice.

R312 500 - R 470 600


Toyota Starlet

Stablemate of the Baleno, The Starlet is very likely the best seller in the segment with over 1000 vehicles a month to their credit.

R 319 100 - R 339 900


Suzuki Swift

Suzuki's segment entry here is the Swift and this is due to the N Line derivatives very close competition with the Swift Sport.

R 213 900 - R 466 900


Special mention

Audi A1

The A1 comes in one step above the batch of vehicles due to its pricing, engine size and features list but you can have a base model Audi for similar money.

R 492 600 - R 601 500


Author - Lawrence Minnie

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more

More categories

All
Automotive News
Buying a Car
Car Ownership
Selling a Car
Electric Cars
Buyer's Guide