Driving Dynamics – The Grand i10 is based on an all new platform and has been tested extensively globally. This certainly reflects in the way it rides and handles. The suspension is not very soft as you see in conventional Hyundai’s but is well set up for Indian conditions. The ride is extremely compliant on most surfaces. At low speeds, the suspension keenly absorbs most of the irregularities on the tarmac. Even at high speed, only the large potholes seep through to the cabin. The suspension setup makes the Hyundai Grand i10 feel more stable too. There is no bouncy feeling at high speeds and the Grand i10 feels extremely stable at triple digit speeds and feels more surefooted around corners too.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9695640642/[/flickr]
Hyundai’s have never scorched the charts in the handling department but the Grand i10 comes across as an exception. Hyundai has set up the chasis so beautifully that it feels far more relaxed around corners and even sudden changes in direction are taken as welcome. At low speeds, the steering is light and navigating through congested city traffic is a simple task. The steering feels reasonably connected at high speeds offering enough feedback to inspire confidence to push around at triple digits speeds. There is absolutely minimal bodyroll in this car and it feels pretty comfortable cruising around at three digit speeds.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9695647304/[/flickr]
The Grand i10 moves on 14-inch 165/65 spec tyres which offer reasonable grip. The company offers a mix of Goodyear, MRF and JK tyres based on the lot of manufacture. Stomp on the brakes at 100 km/hr and it stops in a straight line without much drama. However, the tyres do end up screeching. This is pretty impressive considering the i20 has a tendency to twitch under heavy braking. ABS works well to keep you from harms way and dual front airbags add to the passive safety factor.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9692401827/[/flickr]
Verdict – The Hyundai Grand i10 comes across as a terrific package. Compact on the outside, it has more interior space than the segment leader Maruti Suzuki Swift. Built quality and interiors are probably the best in the segment. The new U2 CRDi diesel engine not only packs in good performance but is also very fuel efficient. With segment first features like the rear AC vents and memory storage for the audio system, the Grand i10 is an all out quality product at a very competitive price. Hyundai is the master of the value for money game and the Grand i10 is set to be another hit from the Korean company.
The Grand i10 delivers on every front. Great interior space, tons of features and a potent diesel engine which is extremely fuel efficient. Coupled with Hyundai’s large after sales network, the Grand i10 certainly has the goods to redefine the segment.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9695634738/[/flickr]
What’s Cool
* Space
* Built quality
* Features
* Mileage
What’s Not So Cool
* No dead pedal
* ABS and airbags are optional
Alternatives: Maruti Suzuki Ritz, Ford Figo, Honda Brio
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9692409503/[/flickr]
2013 Hyundai Grand i10 Specifications
* Engine: 1197cc, 16V, Kappa, VTT (P); 1120cc, 12V, U2 CRDI (D)
* Power: 83 PS @ 6000 RPM (P); 71 PS @ 4000 RPM (D)
* Torque: 114 Nm @ 4000 RPM (P); 158 Nm @ 1500-2750 RPM (D)
* Transmission: 5-speed manual
* Top Speed: 165 km/hr (P), 150 km/hr (D) (est.)
* 0-100 km/hr: 13 seconds (P); 14.52 seconds (D) (est.)
* Fuel Consumption: 12 km/l (Petrol), 17 km/l (Diesel)
* Fuel Type: Petrol; Diesel
* Suspension: McPherson struts (Front), Coupled Torsion Beam Axle (Rear)
* Tyres: 165/65/14 Tubeless
* Brakes: Ventilated Disc (Front), Disc (Rear), ABS
* Safety: ABS, EBD, Front Airbags, Parking Sensors
2013 Hyundai Grand i10 Dimensions
* Overall length x width x height: 3765 mm X 1660 mm X 1520 mm
* Wheelbase: 2425 mm
* Front Track/Rear Track: 1479/1493 mm
* Turning Radius: 4.7 metres
* Ground clearance: 165 mm (est.)
* Boot Volume: 256-liters
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 43 litres
* Kerb Weight: 900-1100 kgs (est.)
Further Reading –
Hyundai Grand i10 Petrol Review
Hyundai Grand i10 vs Maruti Swift
Mega Hatchback Shootout
