The Hyundai i10 first generation (PA), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2011, represented a significant step forward for the Korean automaker in the European city car segment. Produced from 2011 to 2013, the 1.2-liter 86 horsepower variant occupied a crucial middle ground in the i10 lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and usability. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical vehicle for urban commuting and short trips. It was positioned as a step up from the base 1.0-liter engine, offering more power for highway driving and carrying passengers, while remaining more accessible than potential future, more powerful options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i10 |
| Generation | i10 I (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (86 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 108 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 4000 rpm (89.25 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4LA |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| 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 (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 910 kg (2006.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1415 kg (3119.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 225 l (7.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 910 l (32.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 3585 mm (141.14 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2380 mm (93.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1385 mm (54.53 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 149 mm (5.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.5 m (31.17 ft.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/60 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai i10 I (facelift 2011) 1.2-liter 86 horsepower model was a key component of Hyundai’s strategy to establish a stronger foothold in the European microcar market. The facelift, introduced in 2011, brought with it revised styling, improved interior materials, and refinements to the engine range. Built on the PA platform, this i10 aimed to provide a compelling alternative to established competitors like the Fiat 500, Volkswagen Up!, and Toyota Aygo. The 1.2L engine was a significant upgrade over the base 1.0L, offering improved performance for drivers who frequently encountered highway driving or carried passengers. Production of this specific variant ran from 2011 to 2013.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the i10 1.2 is the Hyundai G4LA engine, a 1.248-liter (76.16 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The G4LA engine produces 86 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 121 Nm (89.25 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s compression ratio is 10.5:1. The 1.2L engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission as standard, offering a relatively conventional gear ratio spread designed for fuel efficiency and urban driving. While an automatic transmission was available in some markets, it wasn’t commonly offered with this specific engine configuration in Europe. The engine is a naturally aspirated design, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging.
Driving Characteristics
The i10 1.2 offered a noticeable improvement in driving experience compared to the 1.0-liter version. While not a performance car by any means, the 86 horsepower engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, including merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 11.6 seconds, and the top speed was around 105 mph. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, although the gear ratios were tuned more for economy than outright speed. The steering was light and easy, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight city streets. The suspension, while basic, provided a reasonably comfortable ride, absorbing most bumps and imperfections in the road surface. Compared to the 1.0L, the 1.2 felt more relaxed at highway speeds and less strained when fully loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i10 1.2 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features, reflecting its position as a mid-range offering. Standard equipment often included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS brakes, airbags for the driver and front passenger, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, such as the Style or Comfort variants, added features like air conditioning, alloy wheels, body-colored door handles and mirrors, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The i10 1.2 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering. The relatively lightweight construction of the i10 (around 910 kg or 2006 lbs) contributed to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i10 1.2 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its value for money, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It was often compared favorably to competitors like the Fiat 500 and Toyota Aygo, offering a more spacious interior and a more competitive price point. The 1.2-liter engine was considered a good compromise between performance and economy, although some reviewers noted that it could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 51.1 US mpg. Compared to the 1.0-liter i10, the 1.2 offered a more refined driving experience and better performance, but at a slightly higher price.
Legacy
The Hyundai i10 1.2 (facelift 2011) has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The G4LA engine is known for its robustness and relatively low maintenance costs. Common issues are typically limited to wear and tear items such as brakes, tires, and suspension components. On the used car market, the i10 1.2 remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and economical city car. Its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reputation for reliability continue to make it a compelling option in the used car segment.
