In a bid to counter the newly launched Datsun GO in the segment, Hyundai has officially launched its entry-level hatchback the Eon with a 1.0-litre Kappa engine. The new 1.0-litre engine will be available along with the 0.8-litre motor powering the hatchback earlier. The Eon 1.0 Kappa engine will be available in Magna+ variant and has been priced Rs. 3,83,130 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).
The new all aluminium 1.0-litre Kappa petrol engine gets the latest VTVT technology and is Euro 5 ready. The Hyundai Eon’s 3-cylinder engine produces 69 PS of power at 6200 RPM and 94 Nm of peak torque at 3500 RPM, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Hyundai states that the engine has been designed to deliver high performance, improved fuel efficiency and low emissions. The 1.0-litre engine returns an ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 20.3 km/l.
The 1.0-litre Kappa engine is also lighter courtesy of the use of an aluminium head and block that has helped improve the fuel economy on the Eon. Hyundai has worked on lowering the NVH levels on the car with the use of low friction timing chain, while the piston cooling jets ensures optimum piston temperature for most efficient working. The new engine also powers the European spec i10 internationally.
The 1.0-litre Hyundai Eon does not get any styling updates on the outside or the inside. The hatchback in spite of being a feature rich product could not stir up the segment that is dominated by the Maruti Alto 800. Moreover, the Eon felt hugely underpowered with the older 0.8-litre mill on the hatchback. The new engine though promises much more power and should be fun to drive as well. The 0.8-litre motor is still on sale and powers the base variants of the Eon.
