Hyundai i10 facelift unveiled, still no chance for Australia
A facelifted version of the Hyundai i10 micro car has been unveiled in Europe, but the small model is still zero chance of being sold in Australia.
The updated Hyundai i10 gains a number of changes, including a revised front end with repositioned daytime lights and a reshaped front bumper, while the rear gets a black bumper insert between the reshaped rear reflector/fog-lights.
One of the biggest shortcomings of the i10 has also been addressed as part of the update, with a touchscreen media unit replacing the previous button-heavy system.
It offers all the latest in-car tech, too, with the 7.0-inch screen adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto usability, and satellite navigation. That screen is likely to be reserved for high-spec variants.
Safety kit is boosted, too, with a forward collision warning system fitted, as well as lane departure warning.
It was already one of the best micro cars to drive, but the updated i10 will see revisions to its steering and suspension (larger front bump stops). Engine offerings remain identical, meaning a pair of small output petrol units – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder. The choice of five-speed manual or four-speed auto remains.
Pictured above: the previous Hyundai i10
According to Hyundai Australia PR general manager Bill Thomas, the i10 still doesn't make economic sense for a local launch.
"You have to be sharp on price with light cars, and the exchange rate works against us," he said, intimating that the fact the i10 would have to be imported from Europe rather than South Korea is the biggest issue.
It's a shame, really – we drove the pre-facelift Hyundai i10 in Europe and came away suitably impressed.
If you're in the market for a new micro car, check out our mini car mega test involving the larger, but still sharply-priced, Hyundai Accent.
Click the Photos tab above for more images of the updated Hyundai i10.
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