Back in September 2018, we learned Hyundai Automotive South Africa had plans to revive the Atos nameplate locally, with the new version of the budget hatchback scheduled to arrive in the first quarter of 2019. And now the local arm of the Korean automaker has hinted at pricing.
Hyundai SA told CARmag.co.za it hoped to bring in the new Atos – which was revealed wearing the Santro badge in India in October 2018 – starting from around R150 000. The new Atos will, of course, slot in below the Grand i10 (the latter currently priced from R162 900) and thus compete against the likes of the Renault Kwid, facelifted Datsun Go and Suzuki Celerio.
In India, the new Atos employs a naturally aspirated 1,1-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine offering 51 kW at 5 500 r/min and 99 N.m at 4 500 r/min, and facilitating a top speed of 150 km/h.
Interestingly, Hyundai SA furthermore confirmed to us that a five-speed automated manual gearbox (AMT) is under consideration for the local market, in addition to the standard manual with the same number of cogs. Local testing of this AMT is set to commence shortly (in high-altitude areas of the country), with the SA distributor likely to request different gear ratios to those used in the Indian-spec model.
As a reminder, the newcomer measures 3 610 mm long, 1 645 mm wide and 1 560 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2 400 mm. Inside, the electric window switches are sited centrally (near the gear-lever), while the air-conditioning vents take on a propeller design. Dedicated vents for the rear passengers are also included.
The luggage compartment measures 235 litres (and the fuel tank holds 35 litres), according to Hyundai, while a new 7,0-inch touchscreen infotainment system will be offered in the Indian-spec model (local specifications have, of course, yet to be revealed). This multimedia system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, boasts voice control and includes a reversing camera.
Safety features on the Indian-spec model include ABS with EBD, dual airbags (for the flagship version, anyway), rear parking sensors and a speed-sensing automatic door locking function. Riding on Hyundai’s K1 platform, the brand claims the new Atos features a “strong body structure” (we’re guessing Global NCAP will put that to the test in the near future).
