In the handling department, the Toyota edges ahead. However, not by much. The handling of the Etios Cross is marginally better than what the i20 Active is capable of, even though the dynamic abilities of the new-generation i20 platform are quite a bit superior to what used to be in the old car. Both steering units are equally quick and provide an equal level of feedback, but the i20 Active’s unit feels lighter at city speeds. The ride quality is equally sorted in both the cars here and you’ll be hard pressed to pick one from the other. Both cars will iron out bumps and ruts to roughly the same degree, isolating your posterior from the irregularities of the road beneath the wheels.
Under braking, you realise that the Toyota offers better bite and progression, which is a good thing. However, stomp on the brakes really hard and you’ll feel that the i20 Active is a bit more stable under harsh braking than the Toyota. Finally, once you’ve driven both, you get down to the list of features that are available in each of the two range-toppers from the respective manufacturers. The Hyundai’s equipment list is endless. From rear-view camera, to rear a-c vent to keyless Start/Stop to a fully automatic driver’s side window to automatic projector headlamps with cornering and follow-me-home function, the i20 Active has everything covered. The Toyota’s list is far more modest and will only cover the basics of creature comfort.
