Review of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: A Budget-Friendly Family Car with Hesitant Performance

When considering a car in the budget segment, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is a noteworthy option. While it offers a range of pros and cons, it still stands out as a good choice for a family due to its affordability and user-friendly attributes. This review delves into the driving experience, features, and overall value of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios.

Pros of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Interior Comfort and Style

The Grand i10 Nios is noted for its compact but spacious interior, making it a suitable option for family trips. Even with four adults, there is no discomfort in the back seat, and the ride is comfortable enough for older individuals. The AMT (Automatic Manual Transmission) transmission is a plus for less experienced or relaxed drivers, including those who are in the diesel variant. The luxury of having a diesel AMT is unmatched in its class, adding value to the vehicle.

Advanced Features and Styling

The aesthetics of the Nios are stylish, and the grey interior adds a touch of class, though it might require more maintenance over time. The projector lens light is an added feature, which eliminates the need for any upgrades. Additionally, the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while lacking video playback, ensures a smooth and refined user experience for most driving conditions. The headlights, though not perfect, offer a good spread, and the availability of LED lights in the higher spec version enhances its appeal.

Family-Friendly Features

The Grand i10 Nios is ideal for families, as it offers relaxed driving and good overall comfort. The cabin is great, with excellent features like rear AC vents, automatic climate control, and comfortable seats. Compared to its peers, the Nios has the best interiors in its segment, and its oversea color options like Aqua Teal, Polar White, and Alpha Blue are aplenty to please the eye. Other features include a 1.2-litre petrol engine providing a linear power delivery that is mostly smooth and refined.

Cons of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Ride Quality and Performance

The driving experience is a tad underwhelming. The ride quality is not as smooth as compact sedans like the Xcent or Aura, and the performance of the engine is quite low, especially when driven regularly. This might be a significant drawback for those who value high-performance driving. The AMT transmission, while user-friendly, gives a “head nod” when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear with a heavy foot.

Mileage and Safety

While the Nios is in the budget-friendly range, its mileage is on the lower side, especially in city driving, where it might churn out 11 km/L or less. On highways, it manages around 17 km/L. In terms of safety, the Nios has received some criticisms. Though it has a decent safety rating, it's important to note that small cars may not be as secure in certain crash scenarios, as indicated by the reviewer's personal experience in a 75-80 km/h crash, where they sustained only minor injuries due to seatbelts and airbags.

Conclusion

Overall, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is a well-rounded budget car with a mix of pros and cons. It excels in comfort, style, and affordability, but falls short in terms of driving dynamics and safety. For those prioritizing value, reliability, and a comfortable ride, the Grand i10 Nios remains a compelling choice. Safety, though not the top priority, is still a significant aspect, as highlighted by the personal experience of the reviewer.

Whether you're a first-time driver or a family reaching for a compact sedan, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios could be a crucial player in your search, offering a blend of practicality and style at a reasonable price point.