When Hyundai launched the H1 in March last year, everything about it seemed to be hallmarks for what a minivan should be, from a plethora of standard features to a compliant ride and a very attractive price. Well all except the engine that is.
Up until now, the H1 was only available with a 2,4-litre petrol engine that produces 126 kW and 224 N.m of torque at 4 200 r/min. Many in the automotive industry criticised the inadequacy of this unit and Hyundai has finally addressed that with the introduction of a new diesel engine.
The 2,5-litre common-rail diesel unit now that now slots in above the petrol engine produces above 120 kW at 3 800 r/min and 393 N.m of torque at 2 000 r/min. The diesel H1 is available exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai claims the H1 will consume 10,1 litres/100 km on the combined cycle.
The H1’s long features list includes rear park distance control, alloy wheels, leather upholstery, front and rear air-con, electric front windows, electrically-adjustable side mirrors, and a radio/CD/MP3 with auxiliary input. Despite its luxurious interior, the H1 also boasts 616 dm3of luggage room with the rear seats up, and a whopping 2 800 dm3 of total utility space.
Safety specification includes ABS, dual front airbags and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, which supplements the substantial front crumple zone and reinforced “rings” aligned with the with the major body pillars and linked across the floor and roof, as well as side impact protection beams in all four doors.
The H1 2,5 VGTi is priced at R359 900 and comes with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.
