Far from the world of tricky algorithms and dark trench coats, Hyundai’s 1,6 Matrix has been revised to offer loads of space in an attractive package at a price that remains unchanged.
Far from the world of tricky algorithms and dark trench coats, Hyundai’s 1,6 Matrix has been revised to offer loads of space in an attractive package at a price that remains unchanged.
The no-nonsense MPV’s new appearance was designed in Korea, though wanting to appeal to a largely European buyer, the exterior styling was again delegated to the designers at Pininfarina.
As a result, the bodywork, with its broad surfaces shows off its new front-end styling with big, bold black slats that line up with the headlight clusters to give the car an imposing and aggressive presence. Night-time visibility is improved with the incorporation of Multi-focus Reflector Illumination with clear lens covers for the head lamps.
On the inside, the instrument panel has been redesigned and the gauge panel shifted from behind the steering wheel to the middle of the dashboard. The spacious interior has been designed to provide its occupants with maximum head-, shoulder- and leg-room with more usable space.
The driver’s seat has dual height and lumbar support adjustors and all seats are able to slide and recline. Its double folding feature of the 60/40-split rear bench effectively doubles the cargo space when loading bulkier objects.
Other features include a cover for the cargo area, fold-up seatback trays, storage compartments under the seats, cup holders for all occupants and an additional 12 V power socket in the cabin.
Specification levels remain high with power steering, electric windows, leather upholstery, central locking, climate controlled air-conditioning and a radio/CD combination audio system as standard.
Matrix is powered by Hyundai’s proven 1,6-litre alpha II double overhead cam four-cylinder engine. Producing 76 kW at 5 800 r/min and 140 N.m or torque at 4 500 r/min, the 1,6-litre’s power is transferred to the front via a five-speed manual transmission.
Stopping power is the duty of front brake disks and rear drums linked to ABS and EBD systems.
The latest 1,6 Matrix costs R154 900 and comes standard with a three-year/60 000 km maintenance plan and a three-year/100 000 km warranty plan.
