AS competition heats up in the city car sector, Hyundai is playing its cool card with the i10.
Not only is it one of the latest to the line-up and comes in at a lower price than many rivals, but its standard equipment includes air conditioning.
In today's climate, both of temperature and competition, that can be a significant advantage.
The Hyundai i10 range is made up of just three models - classic, comfort and style - from under £6,500 to £7,600 and has a 65bhp engine while four-speed automatic is available but a/c is standard across the series. The classic and comfort models scrape into a lower tax band at 119g/km as well.
Even the top model tested is not going to break most budgets at under £7,600 and that includes multiple airbags, MP3 sound system with CD, power windows and locking.
The 65bhp engine is very willing and smooth in general driving around town and on main roads, but press on and the noise level rises, although not excessively so. The five speed manual box has a light clutch and direct action change but the powertrain is not particularly flexible due to the modest engine size and you have to make frequent changes to keep up with traffic around you.
Even so, the economy is very reasonable and I liked the ease of the electric power steering around town and was not too troubled by its vagueness on more open roads. The brakes were well up to their task and the handbrake securely held the car on steep hills I use for my test.
Secondary controls all come to hand very easily in the compact cabin and they work with a reassuring positivenes. Simple, clear instruments are appreciated and the air conditioning fills the cabin with desired air and keeps the windows clear on damper nights and days. I think air conditioning is one of the unsung safety advances of recent years which should be specified over and above some other features.
Oddments room is modest in the Hyundai i10 and the various compartments and bins are on the small side while the boot holds just 225 litres.
Its five-door body permits easy access and once seated it is good for those in front but more of compromise for the three rear seat passengers.
The ride quality is surprisingly good for a small car. It does let in some jarring bumps at low speed but in general it copes well if noisily with the road surfaces and it seems to actually improve the more laden it is.
The handling is nothing to get excited about for a lover of performance but this is not a sporting hatchback. It is entirely safe, predictable and unchallenging but particularly easy around town.
You can make the most of the available performance because the visibility is very good, with deep windows, big wipers and reasonably good lights on the Style.
A lot is packaged into the Hyundai i10 and this not only makes it an attractive proposition in the showroom but with its extensive and comprehensive warranty it is streets ahead of competitors.
The Hyundai i10 Style proves you do not have to compromise on features or comfort if you want a city car which will not only save you money when purchased or in daily use, but which will actually hold up well in the longer term.
FAST FACTS
Hyundai i10 1.1 Style 5dr
Price: £7,595
Mechanical: 65bhp, 1,086cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 94mph
0-62mph: 15.6 secs
Combined mpg: 54.3
Insurance group: 2
C02 emissions: 124g/km
BiK rating: 15%
Warranty: 5yrs/ unlimited mileage, 6yrs paint, 6yrs anti-rust