We give Hyundai’s latest hatchback, the Grand i10, the full road test treatment with its 1.1-litre U2 diesel engine.
Unlike the Eon or i20, Hyundai’s German design studio has kept the ‘Fluidic’ mantra in check. The lines are straighter, details more crisp and, while you may not find the styling awe-inspiring, there isn’t anything to dislike either. Also, the new hatchback looks more grown up, which will give it wider acceptance.
Up front, the big hexagonal lower air vent immediately catches your eye. It bears a slight resemblance to the Alto 800’s but it works quite well on this car and lends the Grand i10 a bold and youthful guise. Surrounding it are large and angular fog-lamp inserts and a sharp crease just below that ends in a tiny chin spoiler.
The angular theme continues above the bumper as well. A smart, single-slat grille complements the tapering headlamps and adds a touch of sleekness to the front.
The restrained styling cues at the sides make the Hyundai Grand i10 look quite modest in profile. There aren’t any distractions and the eyes naturally follow the single crease that runs through the nice pull-type door handles, across the length of the car. As part of the top Asta trim, you get thick body mouldings which provide some visual relief.
But, from this view, the best bit has to be what Hyundai calls ‘diamond-cut’ alloy wheels. These optional two-tone eight-spoke alloys do a great job in making the car look chic and upmarket.
Hyundai has specially designed a less rakish window line for better visibility out the rear, a new C-pillar and larger rear doors, which makes getting in and out easy.
The highlight of the rear really is the wraparound tail-lamps, which extend deep into the shoulder line to give a nice stylistic touch. While the large reflectors embedded in the rear bumper do look unique, they may not be to everybody’s tastes.