IT might not be the best time to showcase a new model. But it's far better to present a frugal slump-beater than a great, thirsty lump of metal that'll start eating up your savings as soon as the starter button is pressed.
Hyundai's challenge to the budget market shifts into top gear this month with the introduction of the Getz replacement, called the i20. Set to go head-on with the new Fiesta, Clio and Corsa, it faces tough opposition.
But with cash in short supply and young families looking for every way possible to cut down the bills, the new five door hatch promises to be well received.
Prices start at £8,195 for the 1.2 Classic which makes it one of the best bargains in the sector and with the standard Hyundai five year unlimited mileage warranty, the package looks still more appealing.
There are three trim levels and even the basic Classic comes with air con and MP3 compatibility. Two petrol engines are available - 1.2 and 1.4litre - and there are two diesel version each powered by 1.4litre units producing 74bhp or 89bhp. The dearest model is the 1.4CRDi at £11,845. A three-door version will go on sale in the spring.
The best seller is expected to be the little 1.2litre in mid range Comfort trim. Don't be put off by the diminutive cubic capacity. Hyundai engineers have managed to squeeze 77bhp from the all-new alloy unit and it's a real corker. Not only is it smooth and sweet-sounding but it's nimble enough to knock off the 62mph sprint in 12 seconds and tops out at 103mph.
A slick five speed gearbox with reasonable high ratios makes the most of economy. The combined average is 54.3mpg and a CO2 figure of 124g/km makes it cleaner than the petrol opposition. It may not be quite the driver's car that the new Fiesta is, but handling is sharp enough and the nicely weighted steering is a big improvement over the Getz.
When it comes to looks, the i20 is perhaps a bit too restrained for today's taste. Nothing wrong with a bit of conservatism, but in this sector designers can get away with something a bit more radical. No criticism, though, of the packaging - there's plenty of room for four or even five and the legroom in the rear is surprisingly generous.
Driving the basic 1.2 litre i20 I was won over by the peppy engine and fluid ride. The cabin is well arranged even if the dash layout is a bit unexciting. Step up to the Comfort version and you get brighter trim, alloy wheels and hi-fi controls mounted on the steering wheel.
The lengthy warranty must be strong selling point in credit-crunched uk, and its all credit to Hyundai's reliability that this facility accounts for just 13% of costs - significantly lower than some manufacturers with standard three year packages.
As a value for money deal, the i20 is hard to fault. It may not be quite as flash as some of the European opposition but in the current climate it fits the bill well.