The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios III 1.2 (83 hp) AMT is a subcompact hatchback produced by Hyundai from August 2019 to January 2023. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the broader Grand i10 Nios III range, this variant aimed to provide affordable and fuel-efficient transportation with the convenience of an automated manual transmission. It was primarily marketed in India and other developing markets where value and ease of use are key purchasing factors. The Nios III represented a significant refresh of the Grand i10, bringing updated styling, improved features, and enhanced safety equipment to the popular city car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i10 |
| Generation | Grand i10 Nios III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (83 Hp) AMT |
| Start of production | August, 2019 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 83 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 84.08 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 73.05 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 3.8 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 3.17 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5.32 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 5.62 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 4.68 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 37 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 9.77 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 8.14 UK gal |
| Length | 3805 mm |
| Length (in.) | 149.8 in. |
| Width | 1680 mm |
| Width (in.) | 66.14 in. |
| Height | 1520 mm |
| Height (in.) | 59.84 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 96.46 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 | automatic transmission AMT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14; 175/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Grand i10 Nios III 1.2 AMT utilizes Hyundai’s Kappa II family of engines, specifically the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, designated internally as a variation of the Kappa II series, produces 83 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 114 Nm (84.08 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and employs multi-point fuel injection. The engine is known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) is a 5-speed unit. It’s essentially a manual gearbox with robotic actuators controlling the clutch and gear changes, offering a degree of automation without the complexity and cost of a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2L AMT powertrain delivers modest performance. Acceleration is adequate for city driving, but can feel strained when attempting highway overtaking maneuvers or climbing steep inclines. The AMT transmission, while convenient, isn’t as smooth or responsive as a conventional automatic or a skilled manual driver. Gear changes can be noticeable, and there’s sometimes a slight hesitation during shifts. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, prioritizing lower engine speeds at cruising speeds. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the AMT typically results in a slight decrease in fuel economy due to the inefficiencies of the automated shifting system. Higher trim levels of the Nios III offered a 1.2L engine with slightly more power, or even a diesel engine, providing significantly improved performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 AMT variant of the Grand i10 Nios III typically served as a mid-range trim level. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, power windows, central locking, and basic safety features like dual airbags and ABS. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included body-colored door handles and mirrors, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand i10 Nios III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam axle. This configuration provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system features disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The steering is typically a hydraulic power steering system, offering light and easy maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Grand i10 Nios III 1.2 AMT was generally well-received in its target markets. Critics praised its affordability, fuel efficiency, and the convenience of the AMT transmission. However, the AMT was often criticized for its lack of smoothness and occasional sluggishness. Compared to other trims in the lineup, the 1.2 AMT offered a good balance between price and features. The more powerful engine options provided better performance, while the diesel engine offered superior fuel economy. Competitors in this segment included the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Tata Tiago, and Renault Kwid, all of which offered similar levels of equipment and pricing.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios III 1.2 AMT has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The Kappa II engine is known for its durability, and the AMT transmission, while not without its quirks, is generally dependable with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the AMT transmission’s limitations and ensure it has been properly serviced. The Nios III helped solidify Hyundai’s position as a major player in the Indian and Southeast Asian small car markets, and its success paved the way for future generations of Hyundai hatchbacks.
