Hyundai Getz represents an ideal blend of form and functionality. Powered with an extra smooth 12V, 4 Cylinder Inline, MPFI, 1.3-Litre SOHC engine, Getz delivers an amazing power of 82.9 ps at 5500 rpm and a torque of 11.8 Kgm at 3200 rpm. Getz offers the standard 5 speed manual transmission, which gives an improved shift feel and requires lesser shifting effort and lesser gear sticking. The Front Ventilated Disc and Rear Drum Brakes contribute to GETZ’s surefooted, confident braking ability. The optional Anti Lock Brake System (ABS) modulates brake pressure in sudden braking situations and prevents wheel lock or skidding.
Hyundai Getz is available in four variants - GL, GLS, GLS with ABS. The Hyundai Getz, the biggest-selling light car in Australia last month, has received a styling and mechanical makeover. The price of the cheapest model remains unchanged at $13,490, but this is $500 more than the just-released Daewoo-built Barina, which has the potential to throw down a serious challenge as Holden seeks to increase its sales volume in this highly competitive, rapidly growing section of the car market.
“We have moved the Getz upmarket a little bit with this latest model, and looking at the Barina we think they are where the [Hyundai] Excel was in the 1990s,” Hyundai public relations manager Richard Power said. “We believe the Getz is a higher-quality car with more standard equipment and better economy, even with our 1.6-litre model.” The latest Getz is distinctive with its restyled front and rear and and refurbished interior. The nose is more curved and the headlights more oval-shaped.
The cheapest model has a 1.4-litre twin camshaft and 16-valve engine, while the bigger-engined 1.6, which is $14,490, has air-conditioning and electronic anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes. “Many new light-car drivers are young and inexperienced on the road and need all the car safety aids they can afford to help protect themselves,” Hyundai director of sales and marketing Theo van Doore said.
By lowering the price of access to standard electronic braking aids in an air-conditioned car by some $1500, he said Hyundai was “helping to nurture more of these drivers safely through their more vulnerable years of motoring”. The Getz continues to be sold as a hatchback, with three- or five-door body styles. The new 1.6 replaces the previous GL 1.5 and the cheapest three-door 1.4 replaces the XL 1.3. All new models share the same overall length and wheelbase, as well as having the choice of manual or automatic gearboxes.
Although the price of the 1.4 three-door is unchanged from the previous base model’s $13,490, the automatic is up $27 to $15,380. The 1.6 three-door is $14,490, up $500, although it includes anti-lock brakes and rear disc brakes. The automatic is up $527 at $16,380. The 1.6 five-door price is unchanged at $15,490, including anti-lock, four-wheel-disc brakes, and the automatic’s price is up $27 to $17,380. With a 100cc increase in engine capacity, the 1.6-litre engine has 11Nm more torque and 4kW more power to improve acceleration, while the economy of the mainstream 1.6 automatic improves over that of the old 1.5-litre engine.
It has been reduced from 7.7 litres/100 kilometres to 7.1 litres/100 kilometres. The power increase of the 1.4-litre engine over the previous 1.3 litre is even more marked. It’s up 7.5kW to 70kW, while average fuel consumption is 6.1 litres/100 kilometres for the manual and 7.0 litres/100 kilometres for the automatic. Minor changes have been made to the shock absorber settings to give a more compliant ride. Also standard on all the new Getz models are active front head restraints which minimize whiplash neck injury in a rear-end impact.
Carry-over safety equipment includes dual front air bags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load-limiters, height-adjustable upper front seatbelt mountings and a retractable lap-sash centre rear seatbelt. Inside, the new models have perforated leather trim on the thicker steering wheels, as well as a leather-trimmed gear knob, upgraded audio systems with steering wheel-mounted controls, twill fabric on seats and door trim inserts and a new grained finish for the dashboard. The more powerful audio system, which includes a CD player, also adds WMA format to its MP3 compatibility.
Drive
A far cry from the carburetorred Hyundai Excel that launched in Australia back in the late 80s, the Getz comes across as more than just cheap and cheerful. For starters, the five-speed manual transmission in the FX model we drove, complete with faux-chrome finish, offered a wonderfully short throw and was never notchy; often a sign of an el-cheapo gearbox.
Rowing through the gears was far from a chore, but expect to be doing plenty of it, because at higher speeds the 1.5-litre inline four cylinder engine starts to strain. Taking off from the traffic lights and stop-start traffic is a breeze, and while the engines nature dictates that it needs to be revved for best use of power, most will find it more than enough.
The ride was quite firm, but not to the point where the car would jolt about over small road imperfections. Nasty and rather large pot holes resulted in somewhat noisy thumps, but most cars (bar those from Germany) wouldn’t fare much better. In general, the ride is very smooth, with good level of grip in both wet and dry weather, with predictable, linear steering and excellent power-assisted brakes: Discs at the front and drums at the rear. It should be noted that later in 2003, all Getz models will be fitted with disc brakes front and rear.
Pushed hard, the Getz will get a little floaty through fast corners with less-than-perfect surfacing, but this is more due to its light weight and front-wheel drive as opposed to any glaring chassis problems. In fact, the chassis would have to be one of Hyundai’s best yet - without a doubt - offering a linear and non-intimidating drive.
The top-of-the-range $17,990 FX model we drove had slightly stiffer suspension than the standard models and, as a result, changed direction like a demon. That said, most buyers of the Getz won’t be trying to rival Schumacher and co. At the end of the day, the Getz is a hassle-free car to drive that will be perfect for first car buyers and the young-uns who dig the ’super-mini’ class of cars. The clutch is light, the gearing predictable and car does what you ask of it without protest.
Exterior
As far as the looks go, I really liked the Getz, and I’m more of a ‘big’ car lover, to be honest. Even so, I thought it won out over the Barina and Clio in terms of style, thanks largely to its taller stance which, in conjunction with a larger-than-average windscreen, allows for impressive forward visibility.
The tail-lights are very Euro-chic, which is unsurprising considering some 80 per cent of all Getz built are headed for the EU. The overall proportions of the vehicle are pleasing: not too radical too put the conservatives off, yet far from mundane to keep the important 18-26 year old demographic smiling.
Grille treatment is simple and unflustered and the headlights, while semi-cutesy, are pleasing nonetheless. The wheels-at-all-corners, typical of most super-minis, gives the vehicle more road presence than you’d think and that huge windscreen lends the car a fresh, free spirited feel. The FX model we tested also gets additional front fog lights, 15-inch alloy mages and a roof spoiler over the entry-level GL model, adding to eye candy.
Interior
Stepping inside the 3-door FX model Getz we tested, it is evident that Hyundai has gone to great lengths to clean up its fit-and-finish credibility. When the Excel first appeared, it was affordable. It also had lots of rattles and dubious dash alignment. The Getz is a massive improvement compared to its originator, and is a nice place to be, for long and short trips. The seats are quite firm and, while at the same time supportive, perhaps Hyundai should take a look at how things are done at Peugeot.
Head and shoulder room up front was impressive - even for my 186cm frame, and while there’s plenty of leg room with the front seats moved right back, the rear-seat passengers suffer. While there isn’t oodles of space in the back seats, it is quite roomy for such a tiddly car, testament to Hyundai’s ever-evolving design protocol. On the upside, all three rear occupants get lap-sash belts, which is often a deciding factor for family buyers.
The boot is relatively small, with about 435-litres of space, but is more than enough for the shopping, and we even managed to fit a body-board in the boot for an afternoon at the beach. Better yet, fold down the 60:40 split rear seats and it opens up more room than you’d expect for a super-mini.
The Getz also comes packed with plenty of storage bins and extras such as the sunglasses pocket and take-away hook are the icing on the cake. It’s evident Hyundai wants its younger customers back, and the Getz looks to be the perfect tool. The instruments are laid out in a no-nonsense manner, and FX model had a delightfully sporty silver finish to the speedo and tachometer - some of the nicest we’ve seen. There’s few gizmos and gadgets about the dash and the oblong air vents were cute. Everything is within easy reach and well labelled, making for a relaxed driving environment.
Comfort and Handling
The steering wheel is adjustable by tilt only, but together with the drivers seat controls (notably absent for the front passenger seat) even my six-foot frame found the driving position comfortable. Furthermore, the seating position, while far from the lofty 4×4 standards, felt a little higher than most sedans and hatches and offers good visibility.
The power-assisted steering is light and, combined with the Getz’ small size, it made parallel parking a hassle-free event. It has a 10-metre turning circle diameter between kerbs and easy-on-the-arms 2.9 turns, lock-to-lock. Driving through traffic was a cinch, and changing lanes is simple enough, thanks to the cars short 3.8 metre length and good rear-ward visibility.
The suspension is tuned more for comfort than flat-out fanging, which is probably a good thing. In general, the Getz offers a nice balance, with good comfort levels, but also decisive cornering ability. The only quibble we had with comfort was with the lack of even hinge-opening rear windows - though the five-door model would remedy this.
Engine
The 1.5-litre DOHC mill is a revvy little blighter, putting some 74kW of power to the front wheels @ 5800rpm, hitting a rather soft rev-limiter @ 6500rpm, though the power drops off significantly after 6000rpm. First gear is a bit of a non-event, topping out at roughly 50km/h, but will come in handy for heavy loads and Everest-like inclines. The 0-100km/h dash is completed in a claimed 10.3 seconds, which felt about right. Top speed in the manual is quoted at 180km/h, but going downhill (with a tail wind), 200 kays is possible.
Second gear, however, and the following two, has lovely ratios, with second able to hit 100km/h. Fifth gear is essentially the ‘fuel-saving’ gear, and the Getz is an amazingly thrifty hatch. Weighing just 984kg, this helps improve acceleration, and also reduce fuel consumption - two birds with one, err, reduction. Peak torque of 133Nm kicks in @ a low 3200rpm, providing a usable and lively power band between 3000rpm and 6000rpm. When pushed hard, there is a hint of torque steer, but a lot less than we expected.
Storage and flexibility
From the very beginning, Getz has received high praise for its versatility and storage capabilities. The basic premise of some twenty different storage facilities, including the under-seat tray, sunglasses holder and full complement of non-intrusive compartments, has called for refinement in the details. These include a new center console tray which adds space for extra small items. The glove box is now illuminated, and the door mounted map pockets have been redesigned, improving both utility and appearance. In terms of seating flexibility, the flat folding rear seats with 60/40 capability, dual height driver seat, Space Wizard with three position rear seat folding capability, 5-way folding options offer exceptional flexibility and comfort. And with the rear seats folded double, there is an impressive 977 liters of useable luggage space. Together, these features ensure that Getz still remains among the forefront of this class.
Safety first with Getz
Driving is hugely enjoyable when you know you re safe and secure. That’s why we have equipped the Getz with class leading occupant safety features. You can steer clear out of danger because Getz comes equipped with ABS. It prevents wheel lock and skidding and retains car stability and steerability. The side impact beams provide protection for cabin occupants by ultra-high strength steel beams and bars fitted into each other. Moreover, its unique feature, clutch lock, doubles up as anti-theft and prevents the starting of the engine unless clutch pedal is pressed. It also prevents the starting jerks and gives you smoother ride.
Stylish convenience
Feast your eyes on the stylish interiors of Getz. Its silver centre console and chrome TGS knob give you that sophisticated metallic look. And the alloy wheels to carry the snazzy look forward. The thoughtful console utilities like the front cup holder, pen holder and rear jug holder add to the smart space management and comfort of the interiors.
Technical Specifications
| Classification | Feature | GL | GLS | GLS With ABS | |||
| Dimensions | |||||||
| OverallLength (mm) | | 3810 | | | |||
| Overall Width (mm) | | 1665 | | | |||
| Overall Height (mm) | | 1515 | | | |||
| Wheel Base (mm) | | 2455 | | | |||
| | |||||||
| Engine | |||||||
| No. of Cylinders | | 4 | | | |||
| Displacement (cc) | | 1341 | | | |||
| Max Power (ps @ rpm) | | 82.9@5500 | | | |||
| Max Torque (kgm @ rpm) | | 11.8@3200 | | | |||
| | |||||||
| Tyres | |||||||
| Size | 155/80 R13 | 175/70 R13 | 175/65 R14 | | |||
| | |||||||
| Brakes | |||||||
| Front | | Ventilated Discs | | | |||
| Rear | | Drum | | | |||
| | |||||||
| Suspensions | |||||||
| Front | | Mcpherson Strut | | | |||
| Rear | | Coupled torsion beam axle | | | |||
| Rear -Shock Absorbers | | Gas Filled | | ||||
Features | |||||||||||
| Classification | Items | GL | GLS | GLS with ABS | |||||||
| Safety & Security | |||||||||||
| Child-Safety Rear Door Locks | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Energy Absorbing Collapsible Steering Column | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Day & Night Mirror | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Anti Submarine Seats | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Rear Bumper Reflectors | s | s | s | ||||||||
| RHD Tye Steering Controls | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Door Open Indicator | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Both Sides ORVM | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Clutch lock | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Central Door Locking | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Front Fog lamp | | s | s | ||||||||
| Tail Gate Open Indicator | | s | s | ||||||||
| Anti Lock Brake System (ABS) | | | s | ||||||||
| Exterior | |||||||||||
| Windsheild w/sunband | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Waistline Moulding | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Roof Antenna | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Rear Garnish | s | B/C | B/C | ||||||||
| Detachable Bumper Insert Moulding | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Clear Headlamps | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Body coloured Radiator Grill | s | s | | ||||||||
| Body Coloured Bumper | s | s | | ||||||||
| Wheel Cover | Full | Full | | ||||||||
| Body Coloured Outside Mirror Housing | s | s | | ||||||||
| Rear Wiper & Washer | s | s | | ||||||||
| Rear Spoiler | s | s | | ||||||||
| Rear Defogger | s | s | | ||||||||
| Front & Rear Mud Guard | s | s | | ||||||||
| Body coloured o/s Door Handles | s | s | | ||||||||
| Alloy Wheels | s | s | | ||||||||
| | | | |||||||||
| Interior | |||||||||||
| TGS Knob w/Chrome Insert | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Instrument Cluster w/Chrome Lining | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Aluminum Look Laced Center Facia | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Door Trim Insert | Cloth | Cloth | Cloth | ||||||||
| Seat Fabric | Semi | Full | Full | ||||||||
| Comfort & Convenience | |||||||||||
| Air Conditioning | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Heater | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Power Steering | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Tilt-Steering | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Adjustable Rear Seat Inclination | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Full Door Armrest - Fr & RR | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Front Door Map Pockets | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Coin pocket on door armrest | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Utility Tray Under Steering Wheel | s | s | s | ||||||||
| C pillar Luggage Tray | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Parcel Shelf | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Tailgate lock function with CLS | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Room Lamp | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Glove Box | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Cigar Lighter | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Portable Ashtray | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Foldable Assist Grips | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Clutch Footrest | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Deluxe Center Console with pen & cup holder | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Low Fuel Warning Lamp | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Double folding rear seat | s | s | s | ||||||||
| 60:40 Split back seat | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Lever Adjuster for Front Seat Inclination | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Illuminated Power Windows Front & Rear with Dr. Autodown | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Remote Fuel filler Release | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Vanity Mirror Co driver Side Sun Shade | s | s | s | ||||||||
| Tripmeter ( A & B ) | Only A | s | s | ||||||||
| Seat Back Pockets | | s | s | ||||||||
| Co-passenger Seat side Pocket | | s | s | ||||||||
| Front Passenger Seat Back Hook | | s | s | ||||||||
| Tachometer | | s | s | ||||||||
| Digital Clock | | s | s | ||||||||
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