Hyundai launches new Atos
The Atos name will once again find its way to South African roads.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa recently launched the latest iteration of the entry-level hatchback and I travelled to Bedfordview to see what the new contender offer.
The exterior
The Hyundai Atos is no stranger to the South African market and has sold 45 092 units during its stint in between 2005 and 2013. At the end of 2013, the smallest model in the Hyundai stable was retired to make way for the Grand i10 and now we see the opposite happening. The new Atos which is manufactured in India is fitted with a large grille up front while on the side you will find a stylistic crease featuring on the body panels just behind the 14-inch wheels. The Atos will be available in a variety of colours including Acid Yellow, Polar White, Titan Grey, Fiery Red, Typhoon Silver and Alpha Blue.
The interior
The inside comes standard with a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a USB port and Bluetooth connectivity, with the audio and Bluetooth able to be controlled from the multifunction steering wheel. The system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. Both front occupants will enjoy electric windows and airbags as standard while at the back the Atos includes ISOFIX child seat attachments.
Under the bonnet there is a 1.1-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. This combination produces 52 kW and develops 99 N.m of torque. This sees an estimated range of 700km to be achieved from the 35-litre petrol tank.
Verdict
After listening to the budget speech the night before, it was quite fitting that we were attending the launch of a new small budget car. While in the past you would expect boring styling and minimal features when considering a budget car, the Atos proves to be different. The exterior of the Atos resembles that of the larger and more premium vehicles on offer from Hyundai and that is a good thing considering how well received they are in the local market.
The interior is what impressed me the most, except for the multifunction steering wheel, similar features can be found in the Datsun Go and Renault Kwid although the overall finish in the Hyundai gives the impression of sturdier and more durable construction. The Atos provides for a comfortable and fuel-efficient drive although the motor does feel lacking while making your way up to highway speeds. The biggest criticisms towards the competition of the Atos was their safety standards and although there are no official crash test results to report back as yet, should the Hyundai score better, it will, in my opinion, be the option to consider.
Warranty
The Hyundai Atos comes with a seven-year/200 000km warranty and a one-year/15 000km service plan as standard.
Price
Hyundai Atos 1.1 Motion MT – R159 900
