We review the Hyundai i10 Blue from price to economy and all its features
THE i10 was the Hyundai that rocked the UK’s small car sector.
Almost overnight the i10 went from zero to supermini hero, arriving with perfect timing just as the Scrappage Scheme started.
It replaced the dull, boxy Atos and took Hyundai to a new level of small-car capabilities.
But with growing success based on consistent improvement, the i10 has been given a very early facelift and even more new technology.
I’ve just driven the i10 Blue, which has intelligent stop/start technology. Stop at the traffic lights and the engine will automatically cut out at idle to boost fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions.
It’s not ground-breaking but it shows Hyundai can match the best in Europe for the latest technology – and it is effective.
Fitted to Hyundai’s gutsy 1litre three-cylinder engine, it delivers a petrol pump-bashing 67mpg (combined) and slashes CO2 to 99g/km, meaning no road tax.
The little engine really is a gem around town. OK, it needs winding up on the motorway but once you’re cruising it’s quite happy at between 70 and 80mph.
And the ride and handling are fine for a supermini, although the gearbox was slightly stiff – but my test car had done just 100 miles.
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The i10 is quite roomy for a small city car with space for four adults and a useful sized boot.
And the interior has come a long way from the naff grey Korean plastics of yesteryear – the i10 feels well put together.
The Blue is well equipped – another Hyundai strength – with aircon, electric front windows, height-adjustable steering, split-folding rear seats and stereo/CD player with MP3 compatibility.
At £9,195 you pay a bit more for the stop/start technology but you’ll quickly get that back at the pumps and saving on road tax.
But Hyundai also offer a bargain-price entry-level 1.2litre i10 that starts at £7,890.
And the combination of price, five-year warranty and excellent fuel economy is why the car will find nearly 20,000 UK customers this year.