The Hyundai i10 II 1.25 16V (87 hp) Automatic, produced between 2013 and 2016, represented a key entry point into the second generation of Hyundai’s popular city car. Part of the PA platform (internally designated HX), the i10 II aimed to offer a more refined and spacious alternative to competitors like the Fiat 500 and Volkswagen Up!. This particular variant, combining the 1.25-liter engine with a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a convenience-focused option within the i10 lineup, prioritizing ease of driving over outright performance. It was primarily marketed towards urban drivers and those seeking a simple, affordable, and reliable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i10 |
| Generation | i10 II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.25 16V (87 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 87 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 5500 rpm (88.51 lb.-ft. @ 5500 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 capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 961 kg (2118.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 494 kg (1089.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 252 l (8.9 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1046 l (36.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3665 mm (144.29 in.) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Rear track | 1504 mm (59.21 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.6 m (31.5 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 155/70 R13; 175/65 R14; 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 13; 5.5J x 14; 5.5J x 14; 6.0J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The i10 II 1.25 Automatic was powered by Hyundai’s G4LA engine, a 1.248-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilized a multi-point fuel injection system. The G4LA was a relatively simple engine design, prioritizing reliability and fuel efficiency over high performance. The 87 horsepower peak was achieved at 5,500 rpm, with a torque output of 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft) also at 5,500 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, was a somewhat dated design compared to the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) or six-speed automatics becoming more common in the segment. It was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and simplicity.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.25-liter engine and four-speed automatic combination resulted in a driving experience geared towards urban commuting. Acceleration was modest, taking approximately 13.8 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern automatic designs. Gear changes were noticeable, and the engine could feel strained during uphill climbs or when attempting quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than performance. Compared to the manual transmission version of the 1.25, the automatic offered less driver engagement and slightly reduced fuel efficiency. Higher trim levels, such as those equipped with a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine, offered significantly more spirited performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i10 II 1.25 Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. Base models included central locking, power steering, electric front windows, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Style’ or ‘Comfort’ variants, added features like air conditioning, alloy wheels, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, and body-colored door handles and mirrors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Safety features included ABS brakes, airbags for the driver and front passenger, and seatbelt pretensioners.
Chassis & Braking
The i10 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for navigating city streets. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The relatively lightweight nature of the i10 (around 961 kg or 2119 lbs) helped to compensate for the modest engine power. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the i10 was not designed for aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i10 II 1.25 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable city car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and value for money. However, the four-speed automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of refinement and slow response. Compared to competitors like the Fiat 500 and Volkswagen Up!, the i10 offered more interior space and a longer warranty, but lacked the brand cachet of some European rivals. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 37.9 US mpg (6.2 l/100 km) in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues with the engine or transmission.
Legacy
The Hyundai i10 II 1.25 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for first-time drivers or those seeking an economical and reliable city car. The G4LA engine is known for its durability, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most sophisticated, is generally reliable if properly maintained. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are relatively low. While newer city cars offer more advanced technology and improved fuel efficiency, the i10 II 1.25 Automatic continues to provide a practical and affordable transportation solution.
