The Hyundai Grand i10 II 1.2 (83 hp) Automatic, produced between 2013 and 2017, represented an entry-level offering within the second generation of Hyundai’s popular city car. Positioned as a practical and affordable option, this variant aimed to provide comfortable transportation with the convenience of an automatic transmission. It was a key model for Hyundai in emerging markets and as a value-focused choice in Europe, offering a step up in size and practicality compared to the original i10. The Grand i10 II was built on the HA3 platform, a revised version of the original i10’s platform, offering improved space and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i10 |
| Generation | Grand i10 II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (83 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 157 km/h (97.56 mph) |
| Power | 83 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 4000 rpm (84.08 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1023 kg (2255.33 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs) |
| Max load | 407 kg (897.28 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1202 l (42.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Length | 3765 mm (148.23 in) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2425 mm (95.47 in) |
| Front track | 1479 mm (58.23 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1493 mm (58.78 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Grand i10 II 1.2 Automatic utilized Hyundai’s Kappa II engine family. Specifically, it employed the 1.2-liter (1197 cc) inline-four cylinder engine, designated as the G120. This engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produced 83 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 114 Nm (84 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability. The automatic transmission was a conventional four-speed unit, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for urban driving. It wasn’t the most sophisticated transmission available, but it provided smooth, if not particularly rapid, gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2-liter engine paired with the four-speed automatic transmission resulted in a driving experience geared towards practicality and ease of use rather than performance. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 14.6 seconds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and low-speed drivability, making it well-suited for city traffic. However, overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to the manual transmission version of the 1.2, the automatic offered less direct control and slightly reduced fuel economy. Higher-output versions, such as those found in some export markets, offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience, but at a higher price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand i10 II 1.2 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features, reflecting its position as a value-oriented vehicle. These included air conditioning, power steering, central locking, and an integrated audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a rear window wiper, and electric windows. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing ease of operation.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand i10 II featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smoother roads. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise control. The vehicle’s relatively light weight (1023 kg / 2255 lbs) helped to mitigate the effects of the modest engine output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Grand i10 II 1.2 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable city car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for its lack of responsiveness and limited number of gears. Compared to competitors like the Kia Picanto, Volkswagen up!, and Fiat Panda, the Grand i10 offered a compelling combination of space, features, and value. The 1.2-liter engine with the automatic transmission was often seen as a good choice for drivers prioritizing convenience over performance. Fuel economy was typically in the range of 45-55 mpg, depending on driving conditions.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grand i10 II 1.2 Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The Kappa II engine is known for its longevity, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not cutting-edge, is generally robust. Common maintenance issues are typically minor, such as routine servicing of the engine and transmission fluids. The Grand i10 II remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and dependable city car. Its affordability, combined with Hyundai’s reputation for reliability, ensures its continued presence on roads today. The model helped solidify Hyundai’s position as a major player in the global small car segment.
