Hyundai’s mini-limo here soon
LIMO luxuries in a mini-car package are on offer from Hyundai – in the shape of the latest version of its hugely successful i10, which is about to go on sale.
Costing from £12,800, the range-topping i10 Premium SE model comes with many fittings you would normally only expect in much more expensive cars, including a high-tech seven-inch touch screen and navigation system.
This fully integrated system offers LIVE services, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, making it the only car in its class to offer all three in a single infotainment system, according to Hyundai.
But you don’t have to go to the top of the i10 to get a high spec.
Even the £9,250 i10 S starter model comes with electric front windows and remote central locking as standard and a host of safety features, including Electronic Stability Programme, Brake Assist System and Tyre Pressure Monitoring systems.
External changes to the New i10 include the introduction of what Hyundai calls its ‘Cascading’ grille – a new design feature which will be integrated into the face of other future Hyundai models.
There’s a redesigned front bumper with updated LED Daytime Running Lights on Premium and Premium SE models.
The rear bumper design has been “evolved” to include a black inlay and round fog lights and refreshed rear lights with a darker housing, giving the latest i10 a sportier look.
Two of the latest safety technologies will be available as a £275 Driver Assist option pack on the three highest grade models – SE, Premium and Premium SE – providing lane departure warning (LDWS) and forward collision warning systems. Using a forward facing camera, LDWS alerts the driver with an audible warning if the vehicle moves over lane markings, while FCWS acts to warn the driver with a visual and audible alarm if a collision risk arises from another vehicle
Mechanical changes are few but this latest version gets a modified steering gear ratio for a more direct feel, while larger front shock absorber bump stops are designed to enhance ride comfort and lower suspension noise.
As before there’s a choice of two petrol engines: 1.0-litre and 1.25-litre, driving the front wheels through five-speed manual as standard or fourspeed automatic gearboxes. .