Hyundai Getz (2002 - To Date)

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. Whats more it boasts lower running costs and sharper styling than any of these rivals, making it a very good used buy.

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.

Build
Comfort
Depreciation
Economy
Equipment
Handling
Insurance
Performance
Styling
Value

One of the downsides of such a system is often a compromise on safety, but Hyundais 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 its worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getzs asking price that dont 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, its realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question arent 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 GSis 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 Volkswagens 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 its 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.