WITH the i10 now one of the most ubiquitous city cars on our roads Hyundai has firmly established its credentials as a small car maker in recent years.

For those who need something slightly bigger, however, the i20 has flown under the radar to a large degree, especially when compared to its diminutive sibling.

Following a comprehensive makeover towards the end of last year though, the South Korean brand's offering in the supermini class is well worth considering.

Facing stiff competition from the likes of the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen's Polo, to name a few, the i20 has plenty to commend it - including a stylish new look, decent space and an enjoyable driving experience.

Previously quite plain the latest, third generation, iteration is all smooth, clean lines and sharp angles while a lower roof and slightly increased width and length - as well as a longer wheelbase - all help to create a more dynamic presence on the road.

Four trim grades - SE Connect, Premium, Ultimate and the more aggressively styled N Line - offer buyers plenty of choice while there is a fully-fledged, hot hatch N version in the pipeline from the Seoul brand's motorsport division, which will excite the boy racer brigade.

Whichever version you go for though, it will be well equipped. They may not be as cheap as they used to be, but the sheer amount of kit Hyundai throws in relative to like-for-like rivals still means their motors always offer good value for money.

Our mid-range Premium model may be the sweet spot of the range in that regard, boasting some impressive bells and whistles not always expected in a small car.

A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominates the dashboard, incorporating digital radio, navigation, Bluetooth with voice recognition, Apple and Android smartphone connectivity, a reversing camera and a range of Hyundai Bluelink connected services with a free five-year subscription.

You also get a digital driver's display, drive mode select, climate control, heated front seats, rear privacy glass, cruise control, automatic emergency braking, hill start assist and lane keep assist.

Power for most of the range comes from a mild hybrid system combining a 1.0 turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine with a 48-volt electric motor, delivering 100PS and 172Nm torque and carbon dioxide emissions from 115g/km.

The sportily-focused N Line variant gets a slightly more punchy 120PS version and both are matched with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional seven-speed automatic also available.

The three-pot is a peppy little engine and, with the additional boost of the mild hybrid system, makes for a lively and responsive drive in town traffic and along winding country lanes - where a tight chassis and quick, direct steering add a surprisingly good fun factor.

Grip is reassuring and body roll kept to a minimum, offering the driver plenty of encouragement to take full advantage of some impressively agile handling capabilities.

The pay-off for this engaging dynamic agility is a firm edge to the ride quality, larger potholes and scars on the road surface sending a shudder through the cabin, but it rarely strays into uncomfortable territory.

The falls away a little at the top end but not to the extent that the i20 struggles at motorway speeds - where the inclusion of a sixth gear for the manual, not always a given in this class, helps keep the revs at a reasonable and relaxed level.

Interior space is an area where the i20 scores heavily against some of its rivals. Head and leg room in the rear is decent and, although shoulder space would be tight, it can just about accommodate three adults in the back too for shorter trips.