The Hyundai Getz 1.4 i 16V Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2009, represented a key offering in Hyundai’s entry-level hatchback lineup. Positioned as a practical and affordable option, this variant aimed to provide comfortable transportation with the convenience of an automatic transmission. It was part of the first generation Getz (codenamed GB), which was designed to appeal to European and other international markets seeking a small, reliable, and economical vehicle. The Getz, and this 1.4L variant specifically, was intended to compete with established players like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Getz |
| Generation | Getz |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 i 16V (97 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 97 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3200 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Alpha II / G4EE |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.5 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.1 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 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 | 3825 mm (150.59 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 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 | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Getz 1.4 i Automatic utilized Hyundai’s Alpha II engine, specifically the G4EE code. This 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine employed multi-point fuel injection, a common setup for its time, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 10:1 compression ratio was a standard figure for naturally aspirated gasoline engines of this era, balancing efficiency and performance. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission. While not offering the sophistication of more modern automatic gearboxes, it provided a convenient driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The transmission was designed for smooth, if not particularly rapid, shifts, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 97 horsepower and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.4-liter engine, when coupled with the four-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience geared towards practicality rather than sportiness. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.6 seconds, and top speed was limited to 105.63 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and ease of driving, meaning that quick acceleration required a significant amount of throttle input. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic felt noticeably slower. Higher-output versions of the Getz, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter engine, offered considerably more spirited performance. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did contribute to slightly higher fuel consumption compared to the manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 i Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power steering, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included alloy wheels, electric windows, and a sunroof. The specific trim level (e.g., base, GL, GLS) dictated the standard equipment, with higher trims offering more features. Safety features were relatively basic for the time, typically including driver and passenger airbags and ABS brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The Getz featured a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a coil spring suspension at the rear. The front suspension incorporated an anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking was handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking system, while adequate for everyday driving, wasn’t particularly powerful. The relatively lightweight nature of the Getz helped to compensate for the drum brakes at the rear.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Getz 1.4 i Automatic was generally well-received as an affordable and reliable city car. Critics praised its practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness and the engine’s modest power output. Compared to other trims in the Getz lineup, the 1.4 Automatic offered a more relaxed driving experience but sacrificed performance. The 1.6-liter versions were favored by drivers seeking more power, while the diesel variants (1.5 CRDi) offered superior fuel economy. In terms of reliability, the Getz proved to be a dependable vehicle, with relatively few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Hyundai Getz, and the 1.4 i Automatic variant in particular, has established a reputation for being a durable and affordable used car. The Alpha II engine is known for its robustness, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not cutting-edge, has proven to be relatively reliable. Today, these vehicles can be found at very affordable prices, making them attractive options for first-time car buyers or those seeking a cheap and cheerful runabout. While not a performance icon, the Getz 1.4 i Automatic served its purpose as a practical and economical mode of transportation for a significant number of drivers.
