The Hyundai Xcent I (facelift 2017) 1.2 (83 Hp) Automatic represents a significant iteration within the first generation of Hyundai’s compact sedan, the Xcent. Introduced in April 2017, this variant was specifically tailored for the Indian automotive market, where sub-compact sedans are a particularly popular segment. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, the 1.2-liter engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission aimed to provide a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and convenience for urban commuters. The facelift brought styling updates and minor feature enhancements to the original Xcent, solidifying its position as a competitive choice in its class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Xcent |
| Generation | Xcent I (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (83 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| 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 Model/Code | Kappa II / G4LA |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (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 (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Length | 3995 mm (157.28 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 track | 1493 mm (58.78 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Xcent 1.2 Automatic is Hyundai’s Kappa II G4LA engine, a 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing airflow for improved efficiency and power output. The G4LA engine is known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability and ease of maintenance. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission technology, it provided a convenient alternative to the five-speed manual gearbox offered on other Xcent trims. The four-speed automatic was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the typical driving conditions in India, prioritizing smooth shifts over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 83 horsepower and 114 Nm (84 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.2-liter engine and automatic transmission combination resulted in a driving experience geared towards practicality rather than sportiness. Acceleration was adequate for city driving, but overtaking maneuvers on highways required careful planning. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of more modern transmissions with a greater number of gears. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy, meaning the engine often operated at higher RPMs during acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic offered less direct control and slightly reduced fuel efficiency. However, it provided a significantly more relaxed driving experience, particularly in congested urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Xcent 1.2 Automatic typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power steering, power windows, and central locking. Higher trim levels added features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for different color schemes. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, but airbags were often optional depending on the specific trim level. The automatic transmission was generally offered on the mid-range and higher trim levels, providing a step up in convenience and features compared to the base models.
Chassis & Braking
The Xcent’s chassis employed a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride quality. The rear suspension utilized a semi-independent coil spring arrangement, balancing ride comfort with handling stability. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The inclusion of ABS was a notable safety feature, helping to prevent wheel lockup during emergency braking. The steering system was a rack and pinion setup with electric power steering, offering light and easy maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Xcent 1.2 Automatic was generally well-received in the Indian market. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and value for money. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the somewhat dated four-speed automatic transmission. Compared to competitors like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Honda Amaze, the Xcent offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of features and styling. Fuel economy was comparable to other vehicles in its class, averaging around 14-16 kilometers per liter (approximately 33-38 miles per gallon) in real-world driving conditions. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Hyundai Xcent I (facelift 2017) 1.2 Automatic remains a relatively common sight on Indian roads today. The Kappa II engine and four-speed automatic transmission have proven to be reasonably durable, with many examples exceeding 100,000 kilometers without major mechanical issues. The Xcent’s affordability and practicality have made it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and families. While newer generations of the Xcent have been introduced, the first-generation model, particularly the 1.2 Automatic variant, holds a place as a significant contributor to Hyundai’s success in the Indian automotive market. In the used car market, these models are often sought after for their low running costs and ease of maintenance.
