A proper head-to-head in South Africa — we cover price, performance, petrol economy, safety and what it'll actually cost you to own each one long term.
The specs that matter most — highlighted where one car leads.
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | 74 kW @ 5500 rpm | 72 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 172 Nm @ 1500 rpm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 996 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | 14.5 km/l | 16.7 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | 195 mm | 162 mm |
| Boot / Load Bay | 352 l | 265 l |
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| Kerb Weight | 1135 kg | 1005 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Warranty | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
= leads in this spec
i20 and Starlet are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2008 | 2020 |
| Generation | Third generation i20 on the K2 platform; sold in SA with 1.0T three-cylinder turbo across all variants | First generation Starlet in South Africa on B-segment platform |
| Facelift History | Third generation launched globally in 2020 and arrived in SA shortly after; significant improvement over the second gen in styling, tech, and driving dynamics | Minor updates since launch |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2020 | Original current-generation version |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Color Note | White, Black, Silver, Blue, Red, Yellow | White, Silver, Grey, Blue, Red, Orange |
| Dealer Stock Note | Fluid grade in the South Africa lineup | Top grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | published | published |
| Segment | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1135 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4040 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1775 mm | 1695 mm |
| Height | 1505 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 195 mm | 162 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 l | 40 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 352 l | 265 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1135 kg | 1005 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1610 kg | 1420 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.2 m | 4.9 m |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1551 mm | 1470 mm |
| Rear Track Width | 1565 mm | 1455 mm |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam | Torsion Beam |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Power Steering | Electric | Electric |
| Steering Column | Tilt | Tilt Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | Coil | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil | Torsion Beam |
| Chassis Material | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | Torsion Beam | Torsion Beam |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion Beam | Torsion Beam |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Auto Climate Control | Automatic AC |
| Power Windows | All | All Doors |
| Keyless Entry | Yes | Standard |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Optional |
| Sunroof | Sunroof | Not Available |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Automatic Headlamps | Yes | Standard |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | No | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | No | Standard |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1165 l | 265 l |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1165 l | 265 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | Yes | - |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Power Adjustable | - |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Yes | - |
| 12V Accessory Socket | 12V | - |
| AC Type | Auto Climate Control | Automatic AC |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | No | Standard |
| Boot Opener | Inside | - |
| Climate Zones | 1 | Automatic AC |
| Door Ajar Warning | Yes | - |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Yes | All Doors |
| Engine Check Warning | Yes | - |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Warranty | 4 | Not Applicable |
| Front Armrest | Yes | Not Available |
| Front Power Outlet | Yes | - |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 6.9 | 6 |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Inside | - |
| Glovebox Cooling | Yes | - |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Manual | - |
| Headlamp Washer | No | - |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Panoramic Roof | Sunroof | Not Available |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | Not Available |
| Power Mirrors | Yes | All Doors |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Standard |
| Rear Defogger | Yes | - |
| Rear Reading Lamps | Yes | - |
| Rear Seat Split | 60/40 Split | 60/40 Split |
| Rear Wing | Yes | Not Available |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | Not Available |
| Seat Type | Leather-Look | Fabric |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Yes | - |
| Service Reminder | Yes | - |
| Skid Plates | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spare Wheel | Spare Wheel | Full Size Steel |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Yes | - |
| Tachometer | Yes | - |
| Tail Lamps | Yes | - |
| Telescopic Steering | No | Height Adjustable |
| Tilt Steering | Yes | Height Adjustable |
| Trip Computer | Yes | - |
| Vanity Mirror | Yes | - |
| Voice Command | Yes | Standard |
| Voice Command Support | Yes | Standard |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 11.0 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Auto Climate Control | Automatic AC |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | 4 | - |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | Not Available |
| Centre Console | Yes | Not Available |
| Common Rail Injection | Direct Injection | Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | No | Not Applicable |
| Difflock | No | Not Applicable |
| Digital Speedometer | Analogue + MID | Full Digital |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Wiper | Yes | - |
| Front Wipers Type | Yes | - |
| Glove Box | Yes | - |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Yes | Standard |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | Auto Climate Control | Automatic AC |
| Mirror | Power Adjustable | All Doors |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | Yes | Standard |
| Power Socket 12v | 12V | - |
| Reading Lights Rear | Yes | - |
| Rear Air Conditioning | No | - |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | Yes | - |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | No | Standard |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | Yes | Standard |
| Remote Side Mirror | Power Adjustable | - |
| Rim Size | 16 | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | No | Not Available |
| Sonar | Front & Rear | Rear |
| Sound System | 8 Bose Premium | 4 |
| Source Model Column | i20 | starlet |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | Not Available |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt & Telescopic | Height Adjustable |
| Sub Frame | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| TPMS | Yes | Standard |
| Trim Level | fluid | top |
| Unlocking | Yes | Standard |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | Yes | - |
| Variant Role | Mid-to-high value derivative | Mid-to-high value derivative |
| Vdc | Yes | Standard |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Yes | Standard |
| Walk Away Lock | Yes | Standard |
| Wireless Charger | Yes | Optional |
| Lift Gate | - | Not Available |
| Powered Tailgate | - | Not Available |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Standard |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1-litre Turbocharged Petrol | 1-litre Turbocharged Petrol |
| Engine Code | G3LE | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 998 cc | 996 cc |
| Cylinders | 3 | 3 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Valves | 12 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Stroke | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Maximum Power | 74 kW @ 5500 rpm | 72 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 172 Nm @ 1500 rpm | 140 Nm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual | CVT |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 175 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 11.0 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 65.2 kW/tonne | 71.6 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 151.5 Nm/tonne | 139.3 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Front | Front Transverse |
| Gearbox | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual | CVT Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | FWD | Front Wheel Drive |
| LSD Available | No | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | No | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Gears | 7 | 4 |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Yes | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Type | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual | CVT Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive | FWD/ |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | No | Not Applicable |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual | CVT Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Front-Wheel Drive | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Transmission Speeds | 7 | 4 |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 14.5 km/l | 16.7 km/l |
| City Mileage | 11.7 km/l | 13 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 17.1 km/l | 18 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 l | 40 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | No | Standard |
| Distance To Empty | Yes | - |
| Low Fuel Warning | Yes | - |
| Real-world Mileage | 14.5 km/l | 16.7 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 40 | 40 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS | Yes | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Standard |
| Traction Control | Yes | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes | Standard |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Yes | Standard |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Standard |
| Alarm System | Yes | Standard |
| Central Locking | Yes | Standard |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Yes | Not Available |
| Speed Alert System | Yes | - |
| Front Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Not Available |
| Safety Rating | Not Rated (SA) | - |
| AEB | No | Standard |
| BA | Yes | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Curtain Airbags | Yes | Not Available |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | 7 |
| EBD | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Yes | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | 7 |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Not Available |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Yes | Not Available |
| Side Airbags | Yes | Not Available |
| Stability Control | Yes | Standard |
| TCS | Yes | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | Standard |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Yes | Standard |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Yes | Standard |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ESC With Traction Control | Yes | Standard |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Standard |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Yes | Not Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Not Available |
| Lane Keep Assist | Yes | Not Available |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Standard |
| Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Rear |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Standard |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | No | Standard |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | No | Not Available |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | Yes | Standard |
| Auto Wipers | No | Standard |
| Eco Mode | Yes | - |
| EV Mode | No | Not Available |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Rear |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Standard |
| Sport Mode | No | - |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Not Available |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Warning | Yes | Standard |
| Emergency Braking | No | Standard |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Front & Rear | Rear |
| Parking Sensor | Front & Rear | Rear |
| Pre-Collision System | Yes | Not Available |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | No | Standard |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Standard |
| Reverse Camera Type | Yes | Standard |
| Reversing Camera | Yes | Standard |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather-Look | Fabric |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual | Manual |
| Heated Seats | Front | Not Applicable |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Not Applicable |
| Steering Type | Electric | Electric |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt & Telescopic | Height Adjustable |
| Ambient Lighting | Yes | Not Applicable |
| Folding Rear Seats | 60/40 Split | 60/40 Split |
| Front Armrest | Yes | Not Available |
| Rear Armrest | No | Not Available |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Cup Holders | 4 | - |
| Rear AC Vents | No | - |
| Rear USB Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | 2 |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Not Applicable |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Analogue + MID | Full Digital |
| Interior Colour Options | Black | 6 |
| Door Map Pockets | Yes | - |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Yes | 60/40 Split |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual | Manual |
| Adjustable Front Seat | Manual | - |
| Cooled Seats | No | - |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual | Manual |
| Fabric Seats | Yes | Fabric |
| Front Headrest | Yes | - |
| Leather Seats | No | - |
| Memory Seats | No | - |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual | Manual |
| Rear Headrest | Yes | - |
| Armrest Front | Yes | Not Available |
| Armrest Rear | No | Not Available |
| Boot Space Seats Down | 1165 | - |
| Driver Seat | Manual | Manual |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on Fluid, digital instrument cluster, sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, quality-feeling interior | Touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Interior Trim Colour | Black | - |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Leather-Look | Fabric |
| Interior Colours | Black | 6 |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | No | Not Available |
| Seat Belt Warning | Yes | - |
| Seat Fold Type | 60/40 Split | 60/40 Split |
| Seat Trim | Leather-Look | Fabric |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Standard |
| Android Auto | Yes | Standard |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 8 Bose Premium | 4 |
| Navigation System | Yes | Standard |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 10.25-inch Digital Cluster | Full Digital |
| USB Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | 2 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Yes | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto | Yes | Standard |
| FM Radio | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | - |
| Voice Recognition | Yes | Standard |
| AUX Input | Yes | - |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Yes | - |
| Infotainment Display | Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Rear Usb | Yes | 2 |
| Audio | Yes | - |
| Audio Speakers | 8 Bose Premium | 4 |
| Audio System | Yes | 4 |
| Display Audio | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Multi Information Display | Analogue + MID | Full Digital |
| Connected Services | Yes | Standard |
| Voice Control | Yes | Standard |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Yes | Standard |
| Radio | Yes | - |
| Touchscreen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Yes | Full LED |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | LED |
| Fog Lamps | Yes | Standard |
| Roof Rails | No | Not Available |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 17-inch Alloy | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | Polar White, Aurora Grey, Phantom Black, Fiery Red | 6 |
| Roof Type | Sunroof | Not Available |
| Wing Mirror Type | Power Adjustable | - |
| Rear Wiper | Yes | - |
| Door Handle Finish | Body Coloured | - |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| DRL | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Standard |
| Front Fog Lights | Yes | Standard |
| Led Headlights | Yes | Full LED |
| Led Taillights | Yes | - |
| Auto Headlights | Yes | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | Yes | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | LED |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Sunroof | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | 6 | 7 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Body Coloured | - |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Yes | All Doors |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Power Adjustable | - |
| Front Fog Lamps | Yes | Standard |
| Headlamp Levelling | Yes | Full LED |
| Headlamps | Yes | Full LED |
| Headlight Type | Yes | Full LED |
| Headlights | Yes | Full LED |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Sunroof | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | Not Available |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | Not Available |
| Body Cladding | - | Not Available |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | - | - |
| Departure Angle | - | - |
| Wading Depth | - | - |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | No | Not Applicable |
| Underbody Protection | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 20 deg | - |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | 20 deg | - |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | - |
| Breakover Angle | 20 deg | Not Available |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | - |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | 195 mm | 162 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 195 mm | 162 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Wading Depth Mm | - | - |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 205/45 R17 | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel Type | 17-inch Alloy | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Front Brake Type | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Spare Wheel | Full Size Steel |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | 256 mm | - |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | 262 mm | - |
| Parking Brake Type | Manual | - |
| Tyre Load Index | 91 | - |
| Tyre Speed Rating | H | - |
| Wheel Rim Size | 16 | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Brake Type Front | Disc (Ventilated) | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Disc | Drum |
| Spare Tyre | Spare Wheel | Full Size Steel |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless Radial | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel Diameter | 16 | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Auto Brake Hold | Manual | - |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | No | Standard |
| Brakes | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | Yes | Standard |
| Electric Park Brake | Manual | - |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | - |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | Not Available |
| Handbrake Type | Manual | Not Applicable |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Leather | - |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Spare Wheel | Full Size Steel |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Yes | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Leather | - |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Yes | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Standard |
| Wheel Material | 17-inch Alloy | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Wheel Size Type | 16 | - |
| Wheels | 17-inch Alloy | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15000 km / 12 months | 15,000 km or 1 Year |
| Battery Warranty | 4 | Not Applicable |
| Maintenance Plan | 3 Years / 45000 km | Optional |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.6 l | - |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 15000 | 15,000 km or 1 Year |
| First Service At | 15000 | - |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 Years / 45000 km | Optional |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 Years / 45000 km | Optional |
| Alternator | 120A | - |
| Service Plan | 3 Years / 45000 km | Optional |
| Service Intervals | 15000 km / 12 months | 15,000 km or 1 Year |
| Accessory Battery Type | Lead-acid | - |
| Approx Service Cost | - | Approx R3,200 |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 3 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 5 Years | 6 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 3 Years |
| Warranty | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 3 Years |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 110 g/km | 107 g/km |
| Start Stop System | No | Standard |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Variable Valve Timing | Yes | - |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Unleaded 95 | Petrol |
| Particulate Filter | Not Available | Not Available |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 5 |
| Idle CO2 Output | 110 | 107 |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Yes | - |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 110 | 107 |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Fluid | Top |
| Price Zar | 328900 ZAR | 319900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 328900 | 319900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 328900 | 319900 |
| Spec | i20 | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 14 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 17 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 17 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 20 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | - | 31 |
A transparent specification index shown only when every vehicle clears the minimum comparable-data threshold.
i20 and Starlet are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
In Hagalu's source-backed catalogue index, i20 leads. However, Starlet may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
See how similar cars go head-to-head — you might find a better fit than you expected.
Other comparisons that people in the same boat tend to check out.
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the exact South African derivatives on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.
Hagalu does not publish a guaranteed resale winner. Depreciation depends on age, mileage, condition, derivative, colour, supply and demand. Compare several current used-market listings and obtain trade-in valuations for equivalent examples before relying on a resale estimate.
Check the exact derivatives for drive type, ground clearance, tyres, approach and departure angles, wading depth and low-range gearing where officially disclosed. SUV styling or all-wheel drive alone does not prove that a vehicle is suitable for demanding off-road use.
Calculate each exact derivative using your monthly distance and a current fuel or electricity price, then add finance, insurance, scheduled service, tyres and licence costs. Hagalu does not claim a fixed monthly saving without those buyer-specific inputs.
It is worth more only when the exact price difference buys equipment, space, performance or ownership cover that matters to you. Compare like-for-like lifecycle states and derivatives; a current offer and a historical last-listed price are not directly equivalent.
This i20 and Starlet comparison uses the exact South African derivatives selected above. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: i20 37 vs Starlet 32.
Efficiency index: i20 59 vs Starlet 66.
Safety-equipment index: i20 84 vs Starlet 98.
Practicality index: i20 64 vs Starlet 56.
Ownership-cover index: i20 65 vs Starlet 43.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
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