[Review] Simplistic ergonomics make for a great driving experience
Small does not necessarily equal little or vice versa anymore. This is due to the development of technology which allows one to create space and power where previously it was thought impossible
This then one of the reasons why you can now “downgrade” your car but still have access to most bells, whistles and safety features that previously only featured in the medium and upmarket segments of the vehicle markets.
And, it is not only just the Chinese or established manufacturers which bring innovative products to the market. I have just driven the Hyundai Grand i10 and well, it is quite grand for such a small car but then, is it really that small? It depends on what you compare it with but I am not about to embark on a comparative and speculative spree.
Cosmetics
This generation cannot be compared to its predecessor i10 – it is larger – fact is, I think it has continued where the Getz finished and more. It certainly is a compelling an offer as what the very popular Getz was. It offers a big car-like front design – large air dam/grill, modern headlight clusters with design lines along the edges of the bonnet and the broad bumper which present a modern European look and feel.
From the side the subtle shoulder line and fold down the lower end of the doors, narrowing window line and prominent wheel arches brings the “smallness” into sharp focus. The rear end is quite dynamic, I think – good synchronicity between the light clusters and bumper design and finished off with the spoiler at the top of the tailgate window.
From the driver’s seat, the ergonomics and simplistic layout of the facia is elegantly practical – clear instrument cluster – satellite controls on the steering for the audio system and no fancy bling-bling inserts to distract attention from that which is important when it comes to driving the car. The position of the A-pillars did not present any challenges in terms of visibility and I found the position of the electric window controls to be appropriate.
The driver and passenger space and seats are comfortable but I would prefer some more lower back support from the seats. In the rear legroom is good even when the front seats are set slightly further back than normal. Luggage space, can probably be rated as one of the best in this class.
Performance
Although the Grand i10 is available in three derivatives, they are powered by the same 1.25-litre “Kappa” engine which delivers 64kW and 120Nm linked to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic box. And she is quite spirited despite the “small” engine. My fuel index for the weekend drive, which did not include much spirited driving, averaged around 5,8lt/100km.
I was impressed with the general driving experience. The motor-driven power steering was light in town and well balanced during open-road driving cruising at 120km/h. Suspension feedback was good and the Grand i10 always responded with confidence, no matter what the road surface presented.
Conclusion
The Grand i10 offers dual airbags, ABS, good design, excellent finish and fit, an excellent warranty and one cannot go wrong by offering it a parking space in your garage.
Good value for both the first-time buyer and the “old hand at it”!
