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*