2010 Hyundai I20 1.2L Petrol · YD60 GUG

The 1.25-litre petrol i20 is one of the cheaper superminis to run. Real-world fuel economy typically sits in the 45–50 mpg range, giving an annual fuel cost of roughly £1,100–£1,400 for an average driver covering 6,000–7,000 miles. Road tax for a petrol car registered between 2001 and March 2010 with this engine capacity falls into the cheap bracket — currently £35 per year. Insurance is another strong point: the i20 sits in groups 3–5 depending on trim, making it one of the most affordable superminis to insure for new and younger drivers.

Maintenance costs are generally low thanks to shared Hyundai/Kia parts availability, with a typical service (oil, filter, plugs) costing £120–£180 at an independent garage. However, this specific vehicle has demonstrated above-average wear in the braking and suspension areas, so allow an extra £400–£800 in the first year for brake pipe renewal, caliper servicing and possibly rear springs. Overall estimated annual running cost is £1,400–£1,900, but this could rise sharply if the chassis corrosion accelerates.

Start with a physical inspection of every brake pipe, paying particular attention to the front-to-rear run mentioned in the 2026 fail and both rear pipes flagged in 2025. Corrosion on brake lines this severe is often accompanied by corrosion on the fuel lines, handbrake cable and suspension subframes, so crawl underneath with a torch and check the floorpan seams, jacking points and rear axle mounting areas for bubbling or perforation. The nearside front brake binding noted on the second 2026 fail should be rechecked on a test drive — a brake that drags will cause the wheel to run hot and pull to one side under braking.

The MOT history notes that both rear coil springs and both rear shock absorbers were corroded in 2026. On a 2010 car now 16 years old, this is consistent with end-of-life suspension components, and you should expect to replace the rear springs and possibly the shocks within the next 12 months. Inspect the tyres carefully — the 2025 test flagged cracking on both rear outer tyres, which can indicate age-related rubber degradation even if tread remains. Finally, confirm that the front nearside position lamp has been properly repaired (not just the bulb swapped) and check all other exterior lighting, the horn and the wipers, as these are common i20 MOT failure points across the model range.