Test drove the i10 just 2 days ago.
The test drive i10 was a Sportz Version with the option pack (bluetooth and some other tidbits). In general, the car was not so well maintained with some stuff not working like the electrically adjustable mirrors. If they are trying to sell me a car and want to impress me as much as possible why can't they keep a well maintained, fully functioning piece for TD? <end rant>
Fired up the i10 and it settled to a idle that was somewhat more coarse than I expected (I think they hadn't serviced it properly). Interiors looked good and in general the choice of materials and fit and finish were excellent with respect to the other options at that price point. Ergonomics were good, and all the controls fell nicely within my reach. Pedal were spaced rather closely but it made for easy in city use. Dials looked clean and were easy to decipher (step up from the previous i10) and the blue MID did it's job well. The switchgear felt reasonably well built and quality on par - should easily last the car's life.
Switched on the AC, with fan speed 2, and boy it felt like a chiller. No fuss, not much noise and no apparent load felt on the engine. Revved the engine and the Kappa2's refinement was evident. Though it should be noted that the Maruti K-series engines have the edge in general NVH.
To exit the Showroom and join the main road a reverse maneuver was required. Slotting into reverse unfortunately unfortunately required two attempts, engaging reverse was notchy, a sore point in an otherwise good gearbox. Mirrors felt suitably large and the light steering made the maneuver at 0kph speeds a breeze.
Moving out onto the main road it very quickly became apparent that the Kappa2's low end pulling power was, well, poor. Keep the revs above 2000 and you start making progress, above 3000 and you can pick up some speed. First gear was sluggish and should be used strictly for getting the car into motion.
Early shifts to second are rewarding, and the second gear is great, right from low 10kph speeds up to 40kph or so. The motor responds nicely and closing those elusive gaps in thick traffic is no issue. Third complements the second gear nicely making those dashes to 60 effortless.
Heavy traffic ensured that I had no opportunity to rest the handling of the car, but light controls, the conveniently located gear shift and light steering all contribute a fatigue free drive. On a short empty stretch I was able to push up to 70 and the car had no qualms, the steering felt like it weighted up a bit. Tyre upsize is recommended, for stability, comfort and handling.
Returning to the showroom required climbing up a ramp of epic proportions - the i10 handled it without any fuss.
In essence a brilliant city slicker with compact proportions, smooth engine and gearbox, offering a lot of creature comforts and a great AC to boot. Handles nimbly and promises good reliability. FE should be high if driven with a light foot and you stick to the Manual transmission. Competent for those weekend out of city jaunts if you pack lightly. A very competent hatch, this!
It is hard not to like the i10. And I guess the consistently high sales figures month after month reflect that. Thumbs up Hyundai! |