One is not really sure what Hyundai thought while naming the new Grand i10 as Grand i10 NIOS. Acknowledgement of something or a greeting is probably what the name comes closest to. Whatever the case might be, it is certainly a premium hatchback with a lot of care and concern for its owners. Wondering how this can be said? Read more to know.
Exterior design
At the outside, its projector headlamps and the boomerang-shaped DRLs catch your attention immediately. Chrome handles on the doors give it a classy look. The Gi10 branding on the NIOS’s B-Pillar adds a touch of exclusivity. You will also see ORVMs with integrated indicators and a shark fin antenna, the latter being included in this segment for the first time.
With a wheelbase of 2450 mm, the Grand i10 NIOS is larger than the Grand i10 in every possible way. This has translated into comfortable seating at the rear, where three can sit with ease. A rear AC vent has also been given at the rear; one may have thought that the vent would cause problems in leg room, but that is clearly not the case.
The word NIOS sits pretty on the nicely rounded boot, a touch which has also been seen in the recent Hyundai Venue. Boot space, at 260 litres, is just a touch less than that of the new Maruti Swift. All-in-all, the Grand i10 NIOS Asta Petrol is a nicely rounded vehicle with its design clearly justifying the price (INR 6.45 lakh, Noida)
Interior design
Hyundai really stands out in lending clever touches on the insides, showing that they really care about the Indian consumer. For instance, the round AC vents at the front can be rotated to increase or reduce air circulation. On the front, both next to the driver and the co-passenger, there are small AC ducts facing upwards which, as told by the sales representative, are used to eliminate mist on the windows. Additionally, there is storage space for a 1 LT bottle on every door. The rear defogger consists of thin copper wires to remove fog.
The gear knob fits easily into the palm of one’s hand. In the display counter, you will see one RPM indicator and another digital display. Hyundai seems to have taken the same route as Renault, with a digital speedometer, fuel indicator, door-open indicator, and temperature indicator. Automatic Climate Control has been provided in this vehicle, with the AC being able to cool easily in the current hot and humid weather of Delhi.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have been provided for infotainment. You will need to download the Android Auto app on your phone to use this, and it will project your entire phone on an 8 inch screen without you having to take your eyes off the road. Wireless charging is available, though it works only for high end phones from Samsung, Apple and OnePlus. A USB charging point integrated with the lighter has also been provided. Three 12 V charging points in the front and one at the back have been given in the Asta.
Ground clearance
Unladen ground clearance for the Grand i10 NIOS is 170 mm. This is sufficient for crossing most obstacles on Indian roads. The car feels fairly planted on all kinds of Indian roads. Its suspension seems just as firm as that of the i20 Elite.
Test drive
First things first- the Grand i10 NIOS is not very fast off the block. It takes its time to accelerate from the first to the second, and subsequently the third gear. That being said, once you move from the third to the fourth gear, you are sure to feel a sudden burst of acceleration. This burst continues up to the fifth gear as well, and that is when you really start to enjoy this car. There can be problems while suddenly wanting to accelerate and overtake trucks on the highway, requiring you to downshift frequently.
Visibility at the front is pretty good. Similar to the Renault Kwid, the A Pillar does not create a blind spot at all, allowing you to maneuver the car easily towards the right. Visibility from the windscreen is good, except for the fact that the rear view mirror could have been placed higher; it seemed to be obstructing a bit of visibility.
The feel of the steering wheel is good, and handling is sure footed. This is more of a car that likes to be driven at constant speed, and not really one that enjoys being thrown into corners, unlike a Swift. Grand i10 NIOS Asta comes with ABS, which means that the brakes are pretty effective. 15 inch tyres give the vehicle sufficient grip on all roads.
Verdict
You will certainly enjoy taking this car out on long drives, considering boot and seating space. Expect a fuel efficiency of around 13 kmpl in practical city conditions. If you are not one of the very enthusiastic drivers around, this should be a great vehicle for you.
Design- 8/10
Practicality- 9/10
Gearbox- 6/10
Space- 8/10
Engine- 7/10
Value for money- 7.5/10
