HYUNDAI

SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED The Getz is generating many new converts to the Hyundai marque. Andy Enright tries life at the entry level with a 1.1-Litre GSi version

Sometimes simple works best. Take the styling of Hyundai's baby Getz. There's not a superfluous crease, swage or intake on the entire car and as a result, it's one of the cleanest designs we've seen for some time. Even in base 1.1-litre GSi trim, the Getz is something of a looker in a way that makes rivals seem unnecessarily fussy. Some light tinkering with the front end has freshened this appeal without complicating the lines. Priced at £6,495, the Getz looks set to continue upsetting long established apple carts.

Hyundai owners have tended to be a conservative bunch but the ownership profile has changed of late. With the success of the strikingly styled Coupe and Santa Fe models, the Korean top brass knew that they could get away with a bold design in the supermini class. Plugging in just below the Accent, the Getz will, despite its unusual name, generate significant sales for Hyundai. It's good enough to compete against the latest from Ford, Citroen and Honda. The current models can be identified by means of their clear wraparound headlamps and the black inserts in the front bumper. The 1.1-litre engine that powers the entry-level GSi generates a fizzing 62bhp and needs to be kept on the boil to extract meaningful performance. Derived from Hyundai's existing 1.0-litre engine, the 1.1-litre powerplant is good for 94Nm of torque, a sprint to 60mph in 16.1 seconds and a licence-friendly top speed of 93mph. Of course a vehicle such as the Getz 1.1 is more orientated towards saving money than burning tarmac, and it performs that task impeccably. It's at a natural advantage straight out of the blocks, Hyundai's five-year warranty shrinking running costs to a pittance. Factor in an average fuel economy of 48.7mpg and it becomes clear that the Getz 1.1 GSi is one of the most parsimonious superminis out there, Even around town, you can consider yourself unlucky should you travel less than 39 miles on a gallon, whilst out on the open road, figures the far side of 56mpg are realistically attainable. If that’s not enough, the 87bhp 1.5-litre CRTD diesel also offered in the Getz can average 59mpg.

"As good as it Getz for £8k? You'd be hard pressed to argue against it...."

Although long distance work isn't the Getz's forte, it acquits itself reasonably well with a spacious cabin and comfortable seating. The steering is pleasantly weighty and cushions many road imperfections, as does the comfort-biased suspension set up that makes short work of surface irregularities. Over longer frequency crests, it can feel a little floaty but that's a small price to pay for a ride that can handle the urban environment's least wanted potholes, ruts and speed humps. Both three and five door versions are available, although should you opt for the 1.1-litre engine, your trim choices begin and end at GSi. That said, standard trim is decidedly generous considering the aggressive pricing, the GSi coming replete with air-conditioning, a CD based stereo, central locking and an admirably responsible number of safety features. Hyundai's designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts. Up front, the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. Twin front and side airbags are a welcome feature and it's worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getz's asking price that don't offer such a provision. Electronic brakeforce distribution and anti-lock brakes are also standard on every model. Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. Interior quality is on a par with rivals like the Citroen C3, but a little way shy of class best. Some of the plastics are a little unyielding but given the keen pricing, few will grumble. At 3800mm long, the Getz is simplicity itself to park and the 1660mm width makes it easy to slot through gaps in city traffic. Despite these compact dimensions, it's realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren't rugby league players. As well as being spacious, the Getz is also easy on your conscience. Around 89% of the car is said to be recyclable, which may well be a record in this class. In 1.1 GSi guise, the Getz is within reach of most new car buyers and should easily make Hyundai's conservative sales target. There's a saying that if something looks good, chances are it is. Although we could dredge up a few cars that disprove the saying, Hyundai will be hoping that this maxim rests in the subconscious of anyone taking an interest in the Getz. In 1.1-litre GSi form, it represents excellent value as a more practical city car or as a first car for a youngster. Paying less than £7,000 for a car has traditionally meant buying old-fashioned designs. Not any more. The Hyundai Getz 1.1 GSi extends your options. As good as it Getz for £7k? You'd be hard pressed to argue against it.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Hyundai Getz 1.1 GSi PRICES: £6,495 - £6,995 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 4 CO2 EMISSIONS: 138g/km PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 93mph / 0-60mph 16.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.1] (Combined) 49mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, seatbelt pre-tensioners WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 3800/1600/1485

IT JUST GETZ BETTER AND BETTER Hyundai’s Getz 1.5-Litre CRTD GSI Might Just Be Their Most Appealing Tot To Date. Andy Enright Reports…

To tell the truth, it came as a bit of a surprise to hear that Hyundai were launching a diesel version of their hot selling Getz supermini, the reason being I’d assumed that they were offering a diesel model already. A quick perusal of their model range revealed that I’d been labouring under a misapprehension. Despite the massive popularity of little diesels in this country, the Getz had been battling with one arm behind its back. The oil-burner arrived and sold strongly, so strongly in fact that there are now two CRTD engines in a mildly facelifted Getz line-up. Both deserve to sell like hot cakes - or at least, their Korean equivalent, hot tteok.

Buying a diesel Getz isn’t as simple as it once was. Today there are two distinct versions of the 1.5-litre CRTD turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine to choose from. The first generates 87bhp and the second pumps out 109bhp, an output that could almost see it achieve sporty warm hatch status. The current Getz has also received a mild facelift with reshaped wraparound headlamps and black inserts in the bumper. Generating 87bhp of power, the lesser of the two CRTD units may not be hugely muscular but with such a compact car to haul off the mark, it turns in some respectable figures. A combined fuel economy showing of over 60mpg is the standout feature and on a longer run you’ll see the far side of 70mpg. Even around town, you’ll need to be fairly merciless with the loud pedal to drop the consumption to a worrying level. Acceleration isn’t scorching, but the top speed of 106mph means that motorway cruising won’t have you pulling off at the first exit ramp to buy some ear defenders from Machine Mart. The more powerful 109bhp version is far feistier. It produces 173lb/ft of torque between 1,900 and 2,750rpm. This enables the Getz to hit the 60mph barrier from standstill in 11.1s before running on to an eventual top speed of 112mph. Despite this handy performance, there’s little fuel economy penalty. You should return figures that are nigh-on identical to those of the 87bhp unit give or take a few mpg.

"Even around town, you’ll need to be fairly merciless with the loud pedal to drop the consumption below 44mpg"

There is a little diesel clatter on start up, the CRTD units not being the most silky of their ilk, but you’ll appreciate their character and mid range flexibility which keeps gear changing to a minimum. That gear changing is done through a pleasant 5-speed manual transmission that should engender few complaints. The CRTD engines are available in the GSI or CDX+ trim levels with the less-powerful one restricted to GSI trim and CDX+ customers getting the full 109bhp Monty. The mildly sporting GSI features air-conditioning, twin airbags, anti lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, power steering, electric front windows and a split fold rear seat. ISOFIX child seat mountings are also standard and a CD stereo is a welcome fitment. Go for the CDX+ and you’ll gain alloy wheels of the 14" variety, side airbags, body colouring for the door handles and mirrors, remote central locking, a rear spoiler, a metal effect facia plus leather on the steering wheel and gearknob. It’s actually a very well-equipped car. Priced from £9,207, the CRTD Hyundai Getz models are cars that will keep the Ford Fiesta, the Vauxhall Corsa and the Citroen C3 at the very top of their respective games. Hyundai has done its homework, realising that around 80% of the worldwide appetite for sophisticated superminis is accounted for by Europe. Derived from the Clix sports car concept, the chassis and suspension of the Getz was designed from the outset to provide a fun drive. Another advantage of that wheel-at-each-corner design is that internal space is optimised. The high roofline and tapering waistline of the car give a pleasantly airy feel. Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. One of the downsides of such a system is often a compromise on safety, but Hyundai’s designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts. Up front the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. Twin front and side airbags are a welcome feature and it’s worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getz’s asking price that don’t offer such a provision. Electronic brakeforce distribution and anti-lock brakes are also standard on every model. At 3800mm long, the Getz is simplicity itself to park and the 1660mm width makes it easy to slot through gaps in city traffic. Despite these compact dimensions, it’s realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren’t rugby league players. As well as being spacious, the Getz is also easy on your conscience. Around 89% of the car is said to be recyclable. The Getz CRTD diesels make a lot of sense - so much so, in fact, that they should sell in substantially greater numbers than they do. Although Hyundai might score low marks for maximising their profits, they‘ve certainly cottoned on to building very good small cars. If you haven’t driven a Hyundai recently, try this one. We weren’t surprised by it but you may be.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Hyundai Getz 1.5 CRTD range PRICE: £9,207-£10,057 – on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 5 CO2 EMISSIONS: 1118-122g/km PERFORMANCE: [109bhp] Max Speed 106mph / 0-60mph 16.2s FUEL CONSUMPTION: [87bhp] (Combined) 61mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, seatbelt pre-tensioners / ISOFIX child seats WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 3800/1600/1485

A STEP UP THE KOREA LADDER Hyundai’s Getz 1.4 Has What It Takes To Carve A Place For Itself In The Ultra Competitive Supermini Sector. Andy Enright Reports

Ask most people about Hyundai and they’ll associate the company with small cars. Although the Korean marque has diversified into 4x4s, executive saloons and coupes, it’s still best known for economical hatches. All of which makes it hard to believe that the Hyundai Getz represents their first foray into the supermini sector.

Yes, we’ve had tiny Citycars like the Atoz and the Amica and we’ve had larger mid-range hatches like the Accent and its dim, distant and aptly named predecessor the Pony but the lucrative supermini sector was one that Hyundai chose to ignore. Why? Part of the answer may have been the heat of the competition. The other was that no existing Hyundai chassis platform was the right size for the job. A whole new car would have to be expensively developed. Therefore it was no good embarking upon this course of action until they were confident of producing a genuinely competitive product. The Getz represents just that product. Examined here with the modern 1.4-litre petrol engine and GSi trim, it’s a car that appeals on many levels. The £8,117 sticker price will attract what many perceive to be Hyundai’s core market – bargain conscious mature buyers. Those are the easy sales. What marks this car out as such a landmark small Hyundai is the fact that it will cross boundaries and appeal to car buyers who’d never even considered a Hyundai. The neat good looks are pert enough to attract younger buyers looking for a cute urban runabout and the current facelifted look with the wraparound headlamps raises the car’s visual game further. The 1.4-litre engine is available in GSi or CDX trim and it’s unlikely that customers will feel short changed. The engine uses a modern four-valve per cylinder configuration and continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) for improved efficiency and responsiveness. Performance from the 81bhp unit is fairly brisk, hitting 60mph in a blink over 11 seconds on the way to a top speed of 106mph. Fuel consumption is predictably good, the Getz managing a combined economy figure of some 47mpg. Of course, fuel economy is only a part of the total running cost of any car with other factors such as depreciation and service costs also contributing but the Getz fairs well on these scores too.

"The Getz will cross boundaries and appeal to car buyers who’d never even considered a Hyundai."

Designed with the European market in mind, the Getz was first unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. The styling is Euro-look clean without being boring, devoid of the fussiness that mars many small cars. Hyundai has done its homework, realising that around 80% of worldwide appetite for sophisticated superminis is accounted for by Europe. Derived from the Clix sports car concept, the chassis and suspension of the Getz has been designed from the outset to provide a fun drive. Another advantage of that wheel-at-each-corner design is that internal space is optimised. The high roofline and tapering waistline of the car give a pleasantly airy feel. Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. One of the downsides of such a system is often a compromise on safety, but Hyundai’s designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts. Up front the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. Twin front airbags are a welcome feature and it’s worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getz’s asking price that don’t offer such a provision. Electronic brakeforce distribution and anti-lock brakes are also standard on every model. At 3800mm long, the Getz is simplicity itself to park and the 1660mm width makes it easy to slot through gaps in city traffic. Despite these compact dimensions, it’s realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren’t rugby league players. As well as being spacious, the Getz is also easy on your conscience. Around 89% of the car is said to be recyclable, which may well be a record in this class. Equipment levels are relatively good with the 1.4-litre GSi being fitted with air-conditioning, a CD player, central locking and electric windows as standard. The Hyundai Getz 1.4 GSi isn’t the most technologically advanced supermini you can buy and nor is it even the cheapest. What it does represent is a thoroughly modern and well engineered car at a very competitive price. The fact that here is a small Hyundai where the sticker price is not the key attribute marks something of a watershed for the Korean company. No longer can we damn with faint praise the fact that it’s good for a Hyundai. The Getz 1.4 GSi is good full stop.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Hyundai Getz 1.4 GSi PRICES: £8,117-£8,617 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 4 CO2 EMISSIONS: 150g/km PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 106mph / 0-60mph 11.2s FUEL CONSUMPTION: (Combined) 47mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, seatbelt pre-tensioners WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 3800/1600/1485

HYUNDAI GETZ SMART With revised styling and a range of uprated powerplants, the current Hyundai Getz is worth a second look. Andy Enright reports

When I heard that Hyundai had facelifted the Getz, I have to admit that my heart sank. The Korean company doesn’t have the greatest track record when it comes to mid-life makeovers and the Getz was always a very clean and attractive supermini shape. The pre-launch pictures arrived at our offices and it was with a little trepidation that I opened the envelope, wondering what curiously homespun manifestation I’d see. The results of the redesign are very restrained yet impressive. In turning many of the Getz’s frontal angles into curves, it refreshes and modernises the look. Few facelifts really improve the looks of a car. Here’s one that does.

The clear, wraparound headlights soften the Getz’s visage, giving it a more feminine look than its cubist predecessor. The black bumper inserts integrate far better with the number plate surround and upper specification cars feature fog lights that are now integrated design features rather than what appeared to be tucked away afterthoughts. Revised wheel trim and alloy wheel designs complete the exterior upgrade. The cabin has been given a spruce up too, but again the changes are restrained. Higher quality soft touch plastics and a centre console with better switchgear and superior ergonomics also feature but unless you were very well acquainted with the original car, chances are you won’t spot the differences. What is a more material change is the choice of engines.

"There’s both art and discipline required to build a decent cheap car: Hyundai’s Getz has both"

The 80bhp CRTD three cylinder diesel engine that was slotted into the Getz line-up has been retired, replaced by a pair of more powerful four-pot engines. Buyers get to choose between 87bhp and 109bhp versions of the 1.5-litre engine that’s mated to a new five-speed manual transmission, offering a far sweeter shift than the somewhat scratchy gearbox fitted to the old car. Also helping the perception of quality is excellent refinement, the 110bhp version making its peak torque of 173lb/ft as low as 1,900rpm. This means that you won’t need to rag the engine to within an inch of its life in order to make swift progress. If you decide to give it everything in the cause of statistical research, you could try to replicate Hyundai’s claimed 11.1 second sprint from rest to 60mph and if you find enough derestricted tarmac, 112 mph should be attainable. Both diesel engines will average more than 60mpg. The 66bhp 1.1-litre petrol engine is carried over but gets a few tweaks to help meet Euro IV emissions standards. Most customers will prefer to spend a little more to get hold of the impressive 1.4-litre unit which replaces the old 1.3-litre powerplant. Also Euro IV-compliant, this engine features four valves per cylinder and continuously variable valve timing to punch out a very creditable 96bhp. In a car as light as the Getz, this translates to punchy sprinting ability and also means more than 47mpg on the combined fuel cycle. This engine also has the power to run nicely with a four-speed automatic option. High top gear ratios are designed for high economy and refinement at motorway speeds and the internal software constantly monitors engine speeds and driver demands, adapting itself to suit various driving styles. It’s worth reminding ourselves how far the Getz has come. First unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, the Getz proved an instant hit with most that had the opportunity to view it up close. The styling was clean without being boring, devoid of the fussiness that marred many small cars. Designed to slot into the volume-selling supermini market, the Getz proved something of a breakthrough car for Hyundai. It was their first model to really shift in serious volumes here in the UK, helped by winning a number of industry awards. Since its launch, the Getz has sold more than 550,000 units worldwide with half of those sales coming from Europe. Britain has weighed in with 15,000 Getz models finding happy owners between 2002 and 2005. With lower prices now starting at £6,495 for the 1.1-litre model, the success story looks set to continue. Three trim levels are offered with the current car. The line up starts with GSI, moves up to CDX and summits with the CDX+. A range-topping 1.5CRTD110 CDX+ will still leave enough change from £10,100 to buy you a burger on the way home. Generous equipment levels have long been a Getz byword and the range-topping car is finished with a rear spoiler with integrated brake light, leather trim for the steering wheel and gearshift and a metal grain effect for the fascia. Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. One of the downsides of such a system is often a compromise on safety, but Hyundai’s designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts and the rear head restraints have also been redesigned for better visibility. Up front the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. Twin front and side airbags are a welcome feature and it’s worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getz’s asking price that don’t offer such a provision. Electronic brakeforce distribution and anti-lock brakes are also standard on every model. The Getz has always been a solid recommendation. The latest set of changes merely reinforces our impression that this could well be the best car to come out of South Korea. It’s now a very well rounded little package.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Hyundai Getz range PRICES: £6,495-£10,057 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 4-7 CO2 EMISSIONS: 118-141g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.5CRTD 110] Max Speed 112mph / 0-60mph 11.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.5 CRTD 110] (Extra Urban) 68.9mpg (Urban) 50mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, seatbelt pre-tensioners WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 3800/1600/1485

ATLANTIC DREAMS In the Getz Atlantic, Hyundai are offering a plush supermini at a surprisingly small price. Jonathan Crouch checks it out

Plush superminis are usually only offered with five-doors. Take Hyundai’s Getz for example. The smartest version of the entry-level 1.1-litre petrol model that most customers buy is the CDX. The problem is that this variant comes only with five doors and a £8,500 price tag that takes it uncomfortably close to more mainstream supermini fare. How much more attractive this car would be with a price tag closer to £8,000, even if it came with two fewer doors. Enter the Hyundai Getz Atlantic.

So, what do you get? Well, of course, the same equipment levels as the five-door 1.1-litre CDX variant for a start. That means alloy wheels, air-conditioning, body-coloured door mirrors and handles, electric heated door mirrors, front fog lights, remote central locking, side airbags and an alarm. In addition to all this, the Hyundai Getz Atlantic adds a rear roof spoiler with brake light, colour-coded carpet mats and carbon grain interior trim. Only 750 of these Atlantic models are being made available in a choice of vibrant Hip Hop Red, Sky Blue Metallic, or – entirely new to the Getz range – Blue Onyx Mica paint. As with all Getz models, you can also expect to find electric front windows, a 60:40 split folding rear seat, an RDS radio and CD stereo, power-assisted steering, a height adjustable steering column, driver and passenger airbags with cut off switch for passenger unit and ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution. Hyundai's designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts. Up front, the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. It's worth bearing in mind that there are still cars that cost twice this Getz's asking price that don't offer such a provision.

"As a car for the young or even young at heart, the Getz Atlantic makes pretty good sense all round"

This supermini has had a wash ‘n brush-up of late, the revised versions being identifiable by their clear, wraparound headlights which soften the Getz’s visage, giving it a more feminine look than its cubist predecessor. The black bumper inserts integrate far better with the number plate surround and upper specification cars feature fog lights that are now integrated design features rather than what appeared to be tucked away afterthoughts. Revised wheel trim and alloy wheel designs have completed the exterior upgrade. The cabin has been given a spruce up too, but again the changes are restrained. Higher quality soft touch plastics and a centre console with better switchgear and superior ergonomics also feature but unless you were very well acquainted with the original car, chances are you won’t spot the differences. The 1.1-litre engine that powers this entry-level Atlantic model has been revised to produce a fizzing 65bhp but needs to be kept on the boil to extract any meaningful performance. This petrol powerplant is good for 94Nm of torque, a sprint to 60mph in 16.1 seconds and a licence-friendly top speed of 90mph. It now meets Euro IV emissions standards. Of course, a vehicle such as the Getz 1.1 is more orientated towards saving money than burning tarmac, and it performs that task impeccably. It's at a natural advantage straight out of the blocks, Hyundai's five-year warranty shrinking running costs to a pittance. Factor in an average fuel economy of 51.4mpg and it becomes clear that the Getz 1.1 Atlantic is one of the most parsimonious superminis out there, in every sense. Even around town, you can consider yourself unlucky should you travel less than 39 miles on a gallon, whilst out on the open road, figures the far side of 56mpg are realistically attainable. Although long distance work isn't the Getz's forte, it acquits itself reasonably well with a spacious cabin and comfortable seating. The steering is pleasantly weighty and cushions many road imperfections, as does the comfort-biased suspension set-up that makes short work of surface irregularities. Over longer frequency crests, it can feel a little floaty but that's a small price to pay for a ride that can handle the urban environment's least wanted potholes, ruts and speed humps. Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. Interior quality is on a par with rivals like the Citroen C3, but a little way shy of class best. Some of the plastics are a little unyielding but given the keen pricing, few will grumble. At 3800mm long, the Getz is simplicity itself to park and the 1660mm width makes it easy to slot through gaps in city traffic. Despite these compact dimensions, it's realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren't rugby league players. As well as being spacious, the Getz is also easy on your conscience. Around 89% of the car is said to be recyclable, which may well be a record in this class. As a car for the young or even young at heart, the Getz Atlantic makes pretty good sense all round. It looks cool, is well specified and Hyundai have cleverly priced it at around the £7,000 mark. Newer and younger customers may be the target group for this special edition, but don’t be surprised if you see a significant number of their mums and dads at the wheel of this supermini. Spotting a bargain has no age barriers.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Hyundai Getz Atlantic PRICE: £8,017 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 3A CO2 EMISSIONS: 138g/km PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 90mph / 0-60mph 16.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: Combined) 51.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, seatbelt pre-tensioners WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 3800/1600/1485

HYUNDAI GETZ WITH IT Models Covered: 3 and 5dr Hatches 1.1, 1.3, 1.6 [GSi, CDX, Sport]

BY ANDY ENRIGHT

Hyundai has made massive strides in the past decade. Whereas the badge once signified lowest common denominator motoring, it now stands for the best that south-east Asia can produce. In the compact shape of the Getz supermini Hyundai have a car that can mix it with the likes of the Vauxhall Corsa, the Ford Fiesta and the Citroen C3. What’s more it boasts lower running costs and sharper styling than any of these rivals, making it a very good used buy.

First unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, the Getz proved an instant hit with most who had the opportunity to view it up close. The styling is clean without being boring, devoid of the fussiness that mars many small cars. Designed to slot into Hyundai’s range between the Amica citycar and the evergreen Accent, the Getz is probably the first Hyundai to really shift in serious volumes here in the UK. Hyundai has done its homework, realising that around 80% of worldwide appetite for sophisticated superminis is accounted for by Europe. Derived from the Clix sports car concept, the chassis and suspension of the Getz has been designed from the outset to provide a fun drive. Another advantage of that wheel-at-each-corner design is that internal space is optimised. The high roofline and tapering waistline of the car give a pleasantly airy feel. Both three and five door versions were available from launch in October 2002, with a range of trim levels that starts at GSi, moves up to Sport and tops out with the well-appointed CDX. Three petrol engines are offered and comprise a 62bhp 1.1-litre 12-valve, an 82bhp 1.3-litre 12-valve and a 105bhp 1.6-litre 16-valve. GSi trim is available with the 1.1 and 1.3-litre engines, CDX with all three powerplants and Sport solely with the fizzy 1.6-litre unit. Reshaped wraparound headlamps are the defining feature on the facelifted Getz models that arrived in October 2005 although thicker bumper inserts also mark these cars out. The 1.3-litre petrol engine was replaced by a 96bhp 1.4-litre unit, and the 1.1-litre powerplant was carried over with a few tweaks to improve emissions. The three cylinder 1.5-litre CRTD unit was replaced by two four-pot units packing 87bhp and 109bhp respectively with both being capable of around 60mpg.

Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. One of the downsides of such a system is often a compromise on safety, but Hyundai’s designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts. Up front the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. Twin front and side airbags are a welcome feature and it’s worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getz’s asking price that don’t offer such a provision. Electronic brakeforce distribution and anti-lock brakes are also standard on every model. At 3800mm long, the Getz is simplicity itself to park and the 1660mm width makes it easy to slot through gaps in city traffic. Despite these compact dimensions, it’s realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren’t rugby league players. As well as being spacious, the Getz is also easy on your conscience. Around 89% of the car is said to be recyclable, which may well be a record in this class.

The Getz has held onto its value rather tenaciously which means that genuine bargains are hard to come by. Expect to pay from £4,000 for a 1.1-litre GSi model, £4,900 for the 1.3GSi and £5,100 for the 1.6-litre Sport model. Insurance is very reasonable, with ratings from the 1.1-litre GSi’s Group 3 through to Group 6 for the 1.6-litre Sport.

Although great strides have been made in recent years, Hyundai interiors are still unlikely to worry Volkswagen’s designers and some parts feel quite flimsy. Mechanically the Getz has yet to see any significant faults and Hyundai report that warranty claims are reassuringly low. Good customer service has seen been reflected in a number of customer satisfaction surveys.

(Approx - based on a 2003 Getz 1.6 Sport) Clutch assemblies are about £125, brake pads around £35 and a starter motor about £115. You'll pay around £130 for a headlamp, around £165 for a radiator, and about £135 for an alternator.

Performance of all engines is lively, even the 1.1-litre car able to sprint to 60mph in a respectable 15.5 seconds, although the 1.6-litre car is really worth going for if you like a little zip. Able to hit 60 in 9.6 seconds, it will even run on to 113mph courtesy of its low drag factor. The four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission is worth looking at if you plan to use your Getz primarily for urban sprawl and crawl but for many the five-speed manual gearbox will suffice.

Although it’s not a car that will create too many headlines, the Getz is a Hyundai you can take pride in. With sharp styling, a range of zippy engines and a class leading after sales package, the Getz is a sound bet second time round. Recommended.