WITH its updated design, the Hyundai Grand i10 hopes to continue the success of its predecessor. My thoughts are detailed here.
The tiny entry-level hatchback is a perennial best-seller because of its practicality and affordability. Not only in terms of sales, but also generally, they are excellent automobiles with plenty of personality.
The recent success of the Hyundai Grand i10 attests to this. The Grand i10 is the epitome of the quick city hatchback and the line-up has just been updated.
The newest Grand i10 sports a redesigned exterior, updated interior and even a sedan body style. Thus, the basic concept of an affordable, dependable and environmentally friendly hatchback has not changed. I recently drove the 1.2 Fluid Manual hatchback.
Design
The Staria and the new Tucson are just two examples of how Hyundai has been having success by taking design risks outside of its automobiles. The updated Grand i10 is just as up-to-date in this respect as the competition.
Much more imposing than the pre-facelift model, the new front fascia has a bigger honeycomb grille and scowling headlights with the tri-arrow daytime running lights surrounding the huge grille. The profile from the side is almost the same as before the makeover, yet it still manages to seem modern and chic.
The back end has been updated with a light bar and a diffuser. The wheels on this trim level are a set of 15-inch machined alloys.
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The redesigned Grand i10 is not afraid to stand out from the crowd. Although opinions, on how radical its design is likely to be, vary, this writer believes that it is best to err on the side of caution in this case. The way this style stands out depends greatly on the colour scheme you choose to use.
Interior
It is not always as it seems. The Grand i10’s interior space belies its compact exterior. This area makes excellent use of the available square footage.
The interior design is not as daring as the outside, yet it is nonetheless modern and warm. This car is stylish because of its black and silver colour scheme and red seat piping details. There is some leather in the seats. The whole inside is made of harsh plastic, and some armrest cushioning on the door cards would have been appreciated.
Even with this writer's slouched writing posture, rear passengers enjoy a comfortable ride, and the car’s roofline is not too low for those of a more statured stature. You may count on 360 litres of storage space, which can be increased to 910 if necessary. Certainly not a failure.
Comfort
The Grand i10 has a feature list that is impressive for such a small hatchback without being cumbersome. There are conveniences like auto-on headlights, cruise control, a USB-C connector, power-folding mirrors, and more.
Although the infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, its visual design and user interface could need some work.
It would be beneficial to have speakers with stronger bass. The other switches on the Grand i10 are conveniently located and feel sturdy.
When it comes to daily commute comfort, the Grand i10 is hard to beat. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels are acceptable in both city and highway driving. The cabin's insulation is effective, and the engine is muted.
Performance
There are two different Kappa gasoline engines to choose from: a 1,2-litre four-cylinder and a 1,0-litre three-cylinder. The Kappa 1,2-litre engine in my vehicle generated 61kW and 114Nm of torque.
Keep in mind that the curb weight of the Grand i10 hatchback is 897kg. Even if the Kappa engine is not towing much of anything, it is still a joy to drive because of the five-speed manual transmission.
Even though the Kappa engine in this programme does not like being revved out, full throttle isn't necessary to get optimal performance. The gear ratios are neither too low nor excessively high, but rather find a happy medium.
The Grand i10’s handling is suitable for the occasional commute, but it might benefit from a more connected steering feel. Good behaviour on the road, and the car stays put.
Fuel consumption
The Grand i10’s 1.2 Fluid manual version has a claimed fuel efficiency of 5,5 litres/100 km. I was able to get 6,3 l/100km out of this little machine.
Competitors
Among its rivals are the Kia Picanto, Suzuki Swift, Fiat 500, and Volkswagen Polo Vivo.
Verdict
- The redesigned Hyundai Grand i10 is a respectable car and an acceptable option to think about if you need a small hatchback. To stand out from the crowd like previous generations of Grand i10s, it could need a touch more flair in the areas of driving dynamics and other features. However, given its intended purpose, it succeeds well. — andrew@muzamhindo.com
