It’s been almost three years since Hyundai introduced its keenly packaged i10 budget car to the local market, but the Korean manufacturer has now refreshed the range, which incorporates a revised look, a new engine and added standard specification … at reduced prices!
In a nod to the contemporary “fluidic sculpture” design language of Hyundai, the i10 now sports a fully colour-coded front bumper, a sizeable trapezoidal grille, enlarged headlamps and new rearview mirror housings with integrated indicator lights. At the rear, there’s a reshaped colour-coded bumper and new light clusters.
Although the 1,1 GLS model is still powered by a 50 kW 1,1-litre four-cylinder engine, the 1,2 GLS models are powered by a new 1,25-litre powerplant that produces peak outputs of 64 kW and 119 N.m and is said to consume an average of 4,7 litres/100 km.
The specification is more comprehensive than before: air conditioning, electric windows (all-round), central locking, radio/CD audio system with MP3 compatibility and USB and auxiliary input sockets, a multi-function steering wheel, height-adjustable steering column and driver’s seat, a storage tray under the front seat and a rear window wiper with demister are standard throughout the range. Alloy rims have given best to 14-inch steel wheels on the higher models, though.
Although there are minor changes to the facia, the centre console has an added 12 V power outlet and a rear cup holder, plus the upholstery pattern has been revised.
Although the 1,1 GLS comes with a driver’s airbag only, the 1,2 GLS models have both driver and front passenger airbags, as well as ABS. Five safety belts – four three-point belts and one lap belt for the middle passenger in the rear – are fitted.
Hyundai Automotive SA’s i10 package includes a five-year/150 000 km warranty, which includes roadside assistance. Service intervals are 15 000 km.
Suggested retail prices as of 16 April 2011 are:
i10 1,1 GLS R99 900
i10 1,2 GLS R109 900
i10 1,2 GLS (auto) R119 900
