Hyundai i10

The i10 is well built, inoffensively styled and practical.

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On the road price: £8,000 - £8,500
For : Entertaining to drive, peppy 1.1-litre, generous equipment and space
Against : Engine coarse when revved, ride a little firm

Driving
Light controls ensure the Hyundai is extremely straightforward to drive. With a tight turning circle and excellent visibility, it has all the key attributes a great city car requires. The 1.1-litre engine delivers keen throttle response, making sure the i10 is nippy through traffic. Combine this with responsive steering, progressive brakes and a tidy gearshift, and the Hyundai is fun and easy to drive. Even so, it’s worth pointing out the engine does get a little coarse at higher revs, and the ride tends to be on the firm side. However, the stiff suspension does mean the i10 is stable at motorway speeds.

Marketplace
The i10 replaces Hyundai’s previous city five-door, the Amica. Built in India, links to the old car are clear, particularly in the unattractive side profile. However, the tidy nose and rear are attractive and modern, similar to the bigger i30. Powered by a single 1.1-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, Hyundai’s baby comes in three trim lines – Classic, Style and Comfort. Rivals come far and wide, and include the Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 107, Citroen C1, Volkswagen Fox and Kia Picanto.

Owning
The dashboard design is modern, while the materials used are impressive for a car in this price range. The high-mounted stereo is excellent, with big buttons and a CD player, as well as compatibility with MP3 players. What’s more, the thin-rimmed steering wheel adjusts for height, and the gearlever is perfectly placed on the dashboard. There’s a decent amount of space, with enough legroom in the rear for adults to sit comfortably. Unlike rivals, the i10’s back seats split and fold, while you get three rear belts and a full complement of headrests. Quoted economy of 56mpg is impressive and the low list prices include very good levels of equipment, plus Hyundai’s five-year warranty.

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1 Comment

Poor fuel economy

Bought the top of the range Style mainly because of the impressive fuel economy. However after 2600 miles the car struggles to return better than 35 - 45 mpg. A tank of fuel currently gives only 248 - 280 miles on A roads and motorways.

The car has been back to the dealership twice but they believe 45 mpg is good performance and say there is nothing that can be done to improve matters

By Banana09 on 13 October, 2009, 10:11pm

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