Thank you, Hyundai Automotive SA, for the test unit and thank you IX Online Motoring and Autoworld for the opportunity to do this article.

The Lady in Red

Introduction: What a treat for me, when I was given the opportunity to drive the Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 Liter hatch and saloon, over the past 2 weeks, the latter being my latest test unit. Essentially the same car, albeit a tad longer, by 180 mms, making it possible for Hyundai to add another 42 Liters of luggage space to its boot, bringing the load bay capacity up by 12% compared to the hatch. My unit came in the spectacular Fiery red colour, reminding me, in a small, almost romantic way, of that red Italian car from the 80’s that was driven around Hawaii by a man with a shirt full of flowers, who donned a large moustache! The Saloon and the hatch are two similar cars, but with two individual personalities and will appeal to different customers, giving Hyundai a proper chance of increasing market share in this segment.

Engine/ Economy/ Drive/ Comfort: The Saloon is powered by a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit, delivering an ample 61 kW and 114 Nm of power. The 5-speed manual gearbox is smooth and has a beautiful chrome accented gear knob giving the car a deserving premium feel. Hyundai says that the economy is excellent with a combined average of 5.5 Liters per 100 kms, which will be very attractive to many buyers in this hectic economic climate. As it is with me and my heavy foot, I averaged a bit more than 7 Liters per 100 kms only because I was pushing the car between stop streets and traffic lights to test out the acceleration and braking ability, which were both good from where I sat in the comfortable driver’s seat. On the open road and throughout town, keeping it tidy and staying traffic offence free, the Saloon drove well and was a pleasure to drive.

Features: As is with most new cars, the features on offer are fantastic and are all included in the selling price. The Android Auto, Apple Play and Voice control are built into the 20 cm infotainment screen which sits in the middle of the ergonomically built dashboard. Personally, a Cruise control is a game changer in any car, so really enjoyed using this function and other great features such as; a rear camera with a crystal clear view, Vanity mirrors for the driver and passenger, electric side mirrors, transponder/ immobiliser alarm, remote key entry, drivers auto window, Ambient lighting, powerful air-conditioning, a luggage net and cargo screen, C type and A type USB ports on the front dashboard, along with the 12 V socket and the A type USB connection in the rear, 60/40 rear seat split and a bonus at no additional charge, good floor mats.

Interior/ Exterior/ Boot: The Saloon had more than enough interior legroom both in the front and rear, with a strong and attractive dual tone, grey and black plastic covering the doors and dashboard. The Lady in Red looks stunning from the outside with the Fiery red colour enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the car – by the way you have six different colours to choose from. I love the vertical and horizontal lines of this car, with a lovely looking honeycomb grille and front bumper that accommodates daytime LED running lights, compared by some to the stick from down under that is supposed to come back to you, when you throw it! The boot comes in at 402 Liters which is plenty room to fit in enough groceries, luggage, biltong, braai meat and a cooler box filled with brown fantas for a road trip.

Price/ Warranty/ Service Plan: R285900, with a 7-year/ 200000 km manufacturer warranty and a 1 year 15000 km service plan

In Summary: Would I buy this car? Most definitely and I would because it’s a charming set of 15-inch wheels, with enough room for family and mates to cruise around town or hit the road for that well deserved weekend getaway. My good mate Craig, is known for playing The Lady in Red  by Chris de Burgh, when he feels its time for everyone to leave his awesome braai – normally it’s a dismal moment, as we realise the party is all over, but now, after having driven the Saloon, every time I hear it, I will forever be grateful that I can always have the memory of driving The Lady in Red which should cushion the cruel blow!

*This article is written in my opinion only. For detailed information on the specs, please contact Hyundai Automotive SA*