The Hyundai Getz 1.1 MPI (62 hp) 3-door, produced between 2002 and 2005, represents the entry point into the first generation (2002-2007) of Hyundai’s subcompact hatchback. Designed primarily for the European market, the Getz aimed to provide affordable and practical transportation, competing with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio. This particular 1.1-liter variant was positioned as the most economical and accessible option within the Getz lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs over outright performance. It was a key model in Hyundai’s efforts to establish a stronger foothold in the competitive European small car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Getz |
| Generation | Getz |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 MPI (62 Hp) 3d |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 152 km/h (94.45 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 62 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 3250 rpm (70.81 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1086 cm3 (66.27 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 67 mm (2.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 930 kg (2050.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 254 l (8.97 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 977 l (34.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3810 mm (150 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2455 mm (96.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 155/80 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Getz 1.1 MPI utilizes the Hyundai G4HD engine, a 1.1-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a relatively simple design, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust). The multi-point fuel injection (MPI) system delivers fuel directly to the intake ports, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produces 62 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 96 Nm (70.81 lb-ft) of torque at 3,250 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy and reliability over high performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to overall fuel efficiency. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 9.6:1 allows it to run reliably on a wide range of fuel grades.
Driving Characteristics
The Getz 1.1 MPI offers modest performance. Acceleration is leisurely, taking approximately 16.1 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine feels strained at higher speeds, and highway overtaking requires careful planning. The 5-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing adequate gear spacing for everyday driving. The gear ratios are optimized for maximizing fuel economy rather than providing sporty acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 and 1.6-liter versions of the Getz, the 1.1 MPI feels significantly slower, but it offers a smoother and more relaxed driving experience in urban environments. The lighter engine weight contributes to nimble handling in city traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1 MPI Getz typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and an immobilizer. Interior upholstery was typically a durable cloth material. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric front windows, and a radio/cassette player. Trim levels were relatively simple, with the focus being on providing essential features at an affordable price. The 3-door body style further emphasized the Getz 1.1’s appeal to younger drivers or those seeking a more compact and affordable vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Getz utilizes a relatively simple chassis design, featuring coil spring suspension at both the front and rear. The front suspension employs MacPherson struts, while the rear utilizes a torsion beam axle. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking performance is adequate for everyday driving, but it lacks the stopping power of higher-spec Getz models with all-disc brakes. The suspension setup prioritizes ride comfort over sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride on most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars were typically omitted on the base 1.1 MPI model to keep costs down.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Getz 1.1 MPI was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and practical city car. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, and it proved to be a reliable and economical option for budget-conscious buyers. However, its lack of power and basic equipment levels were often criticized. Compared to the 1.4-liter Getz, the 1.1 MPI offered significantly lower performance but better fuel economy. The 1.6-liter version provided a more engaging driving experience but came at a higher price point. The Getz 1.1 MPI successfully carved out a niche for itself as a no-frills, economical hatchback.
Legacy
The Hyundai Getz 1.1 MPI has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the robustness of its engine and mechanical components. In the used car market, the 1.1 MPI Getz remains an affordable and practical option for first-time car buyers or those seeking a cheap and cheerful runabout. While it may not offer the performance or features of more modern vehicles, its simplicity and low running costs continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The Getz 1.1 MPI played a significant role in establishing Hyundai as a credible competitor in the European small car market.
