Hyundai H1 Bus’s new look
AT NO PRICE INCREASE: WHOLE NOSE SECTION REDESIGNED FOR A MORE MODERN LOOK
Also bigger tyres, infotainment centre and adjustable steering wheel.
Hyundai’s popular H1 Bus has received a bold new face in a make-over that is bound to elevate this market-leader to become an even bigger favourite among customers in need of a competent people-carrier that offers great value for money.
The whole nose section of the H1 has been redesigned, giving the nine-seater bus, and its panel van sibling, a modern look that fits in with the styling of the passenger car and SUV range of the Korean manufacturer, and there’s no increase in price.
New 17-inch alloy wheels adds to the good looks of the 2.5 turbodiesel derivative of the H1 range, while the addition of an infotainment centre with a large touchscreen enhances the list of interior luxury and comfort features in both nine-seater derivatives.
A steering wheel that can now adjust for reach as well as height makes the driving position in the H1 and the panel van even more comfortable.
The panel van will still be equipped with 16-inch steel wheel rims.
Rear camera as parking assistance, with display in the rear-view mirror, has also been added as a luxury feature in the range-topping H1 2.5 Turbodiesel Bus.
Projection-style headlights illuminate the road ahead more effectively and add to the good looks of the new front-end of the H1.
Existing features that make the H1 2.5 turbodiesel bus an ideal family or touring vehicle include:
Bluetooth connectivity for the infotainment’s sound system with multifunction controls on the steering wheel; Cruise control with controls on the steering wheel; A full automatic air conditioner with climate control; Glove box cooling; A side airbag; Electric folding mirrors; and An Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). The H1 9-Bus has long been one of the most popular vehicles in the Hyundai line-up, with applications as a family vehicle as well as commercial use for businesses that need to transport people.
“The H1 has never really aged since we launched it in 2009, but the new make-over has really given it a modern look and a bold exterior that will attract many more buyers,” says Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director of Hyundai Automotive SA.
“The fact that we have sold 14 424 H1 buses and 2 272 panel vans since the 2009 launch proves the popularity of the car.”
The six-seater Multicab derivative has been discontinued, but individual orders with deposits for it will still be considered.
The refreshed H1 Bus still has two engine options: A 2359cc petrol engine, delivering its 126kW maximum power and 224Nm maximum torque through a fivespeed manual gearbox to the rear wheels; and a 2497cc turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 125kW maximum power and 441Nm maximum torque. The 2,5-litre turbodiesel uses a fivespeed automatic gearbox and is also driven through the rear wheels.
Being able to carry eight people and their luggage over long distances (or nine if the seat between the driver and front passenger is used) is the H1 Bus’s key strength.
Handling characteristics of the H1 are car-like, road holding that inspires confidence. Rack and pinion steering ensures crisp responses while hydraulic assistance reduces the effort required in tight situations.
The H1 Bus is easy to park with a big glass area and substantial mirrors and the park-assist rearview camera.
The H1 is equipped with McPherson type strut with gas shock absorbers for front suspension, and for the H1 9-seater Bus a rigid axle five-link rear suspension with oil-filled shock absorbers ensures a comfortable ride. Dual leaf springs are used as rear suspension in the panel van.