Monday, June 6, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Hyundai i10 (2008-2014)

2008-2014 Hyundai i10

The Good: Heaps of space in a tiny package, cheap to run

The Bad: Lack of safety gear in some trim levels

The Say: A practical hatchback that wont break the bank and your resources.

Go For: 1.2
Avoid: 1.1

Price Range: P180,000-P420,000
Our Rating: ****

Full review: Used Car Review - Hyundai i10 (2008-Current)
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Grand i10

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2010
2011-2014

Vehicle Overview
Hyundai had dominated the economy car segment with the Getz in the mid-2000s and with gas prices spiked in 2008, the timing for the Indian assembled (it is not sold in South Korea) i10 was perfect and complemented the rather basic sibling.

Sold at a price range of P500,000 back then, the i10 provided an interior which shamed rivals since it is built solidly despite the presence of hard plastics. Complementing this one is the transmission shifter's location is in the middle which frees up space in the middle that is occupied by the parking brake and an ashtray. Just like any rivals, four people is good but squeezing five isn't great.

Two engines can be had, a 1.1 which does not deliver at initial launch but gets things going when accelerated and a 1.2 that promises more flexibility and power. When it comes to the driving experience, you wouldn't feel any road imperfections and road rolls does not come standard. One good amenity is the tall headroom, which translates to good all around visibility.

What Should I Get
Since its launch in August 2008, i10s come with a 68hp 1.1 engine with either a manual or automatic transmission and airbags come standard for the former while the latter gets rear folding bench. This equipment discrepancy ended in a 2011 update which removed the airbags and folding bench for the 1.1 models. 1.1 GLS models do get all power amenities (power mirrors isn't standard among 2008 to 2010 models), alarm system, keyless entry, fog lamps, and a rear wiper. Launched in February 2009, a 86hp 1.2 GLS model was made available which adds a 60/40 fold rear bench, driver's airbag, and a digital clock. Going for the 1.1 GL that is distinguished by its black bumpers retains power steering and front power windows and strips down fog lamps and a rear wiper. Our pick would be the 1.2 GLS, since it has more power and more features.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Maintenance costs for this vehicle is on the cheap side but somewhat higher compared to the Getz. When it comes to fuel consumption, the Suzuki Alto and Celerio excel in this aspect since the numbers aren't the high so if that thing is a concern, go with the manual since the automatic isn't fuel efficient to begin with. If you want this car, watch out for regular wear and tear items and auxiliary fans which, despite shutting off the engine, still rotates. Luckily, there are Korean specialist shops which exist should you need an alternative to the dealership.

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