Why I Love My 2018 Hyundai i20 Elite More Than My 2023 Swift ZXI

 

When picking a favorite car, sometimes age doesn't matter, and that’s exactly how I feel about my 2018 Hyundai i20 Elite. While my 2023 Swift ZXI is an impressive machine in its own right, the i20 holds a special place in my heart. Let me tell you why my i20 Elite still manages to edge out the newer Swift ZXI in my favorites list.

1. The Mod Culture and Personalization Potential

My i20 is more than just a car; it’s a canvas. From @gttunerz’s OEM+ Stage 2 tuning with those perfect pops and burbles to HPI’s performance air filter and Mark Performance’s full piping with Remus endcan, I’ve customized it to match my personality. Plus, the @cobrasuspension_india lowering springs give it that perfect 35/30mm drop, which makes it stand out on the road.

Modifying my i20 has turned it into an ongoing project, with each mod enhancing its performance and character. The underglow lights, crystal eye LEDs, and ambient lighting add a flair I haven’t dared to try on the Swift.

2. Driving Dynamics and Lowered Suspension

The feeling of being connected to the road is unmatched. Thanks to the lowering springs and upgraded suspension, the i20 offers a lowered center of gravity that makes every drive a joy. It corners tighter, accelerates smoother, and feels more responsive. The Swift ZXI, while great, just doesn’t offer the same tuned driving dynamics. When I take the i20 out for a spin, I know it's been crafted with my driving preferences in mind.

3. Unique Aesthetic Touches

Looks matter, and my i20 has them in spades. The black roof wrap, reflectors, and underglow lights make it look sporty and aggressive—exactly the way I like it. It’s not just a car; it’s a head-turner. Compared to the sleek but relatively simple Swift, my i20 brings personality to the road.

4. Bond Over the Years

With every trip and every road covered, my i20 has become a companion. Whether it’s tackling challenging terrains or making late-night city runs, this car has never let me down. The connection I’ve built over the years with it goes beyond just driving; it’s personal.

5. A Sense of Achievement

Each modification I’ve added feels like an achievement. From saving up to planning every mod to the final reveal of the transformation, my i20 tells a story of passion and patience. The Swift, while brand new and equipped with more tech, just doesn’t have that level of personal history yet.

6. 6 Airbags for Enhanced Safety

Safety is a priority, and the i20 Elite excels in this area with 6 airbags—front, side, and curtain. This level of safety is a rarity in the hatchback segment and provides peace of mind, especially on highways. The Swift ZXI, in contrast, comes with only dual front airbags, which limits its safety net compared to the i20’s comprehensive coverage.

8. Rear AC Vents

Another big plus in the i20 is the rear AC vents—a rare feature in hatchbacks that adds to rear passenger comfort during long drives. The Swift lacks this, giving the i20 an advantage in passenger comfort and airflow distribution.

9. Adjustable (Tilt and Telescopic) Steering Wheel with Audio Controls

The i20’s steering is both tilt- and telescopically adjustable, unlike the Swift ZXI’s tilt-only steering. This means I can adjust it to the perfect driving position, enhancing comfort and control, especially on longer drives. 

10. Enhanced Cabin Insulation for a Quieter Ride

Hyundai equipped the i20 Elite with superior sound insulation, which significantly reduces external noise, creating a quieter, more refined cabin experience. This feature is especially valuable on highways or in heavy traffic, where road noise can be intrusive. The Swift ZXI, in comparison, lacks this level of noise insulation.

11. Projector Headlamps with Cornering Function

The i20 is equipped with projector headlamps that come with a cornering function, offering better illumination on turns, especially at night. This feature enhances visibility and safety during night driving. While the Swift’s headlights are reliable, they don’t offer the same enhanced lighting features as the i20.

12. Digital Instrument Cluster with Premium Display

Hyundai designed the i20 with a digital instrument cluster that provides a range of information at a glance, such as fuel efficiency, trip distance, and vehicle diagnostics. This digital setup has a premium look and adds to the driver experience by delivering vital information efficiently.

With these additional features, the i20 Elite truly shines as a feature-rich, safe, and comfortable car. Each aspect contributes to a driving experience that feels premium and personal, making it an exceptional vehicle that continues to hold a special place in my garage.