Hyundai Getz Atlantic Special Edition
Plush superminis are usually only offered with five-doors. Take Hyundais Getz for example. The smartest version of the entry-level 1.1-litre petrol model that most customers buy is the CDX.
The problem is that this variant comes only with five doors and a £8,500 price tag that takes it uncomfortably close to more mainstream supermini fare. How much more attractive this car would be with a price tag closer to £8,000, even if it came with two fewer doors. Enter the Hyundai Getz Atlantic.
| Build |  |
| Comfort |  |
| Depreciation | |
| Economy |  |
| Equipment | |
| Handling | |
| Insurance | |
| Performance | |
| Styling | |
| Value |  |
Only 750 of these Atlantic models are being made available in a choice of vibrant Hip Hop Red, Sky Blue Metallic, or entirely new to the Getz range Blue Onyx Mica paint. As with all Getz models, you can also expect to find electric front windows, a 60:40 split folding rear seat, an RDS radio and CD stereo, power-assisted steering, a height adjustable steering column, driver and passenger airbags with cut off switch for passenger unit and ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution. Hyundai's 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. It's worth bearing in mind that there are still cars that cost twice this Getz's asking price that don't offer such a provision.
"As a car for the young or even young at heart, the Getz Atlantic makes pretty good sense all round"
This supermini has had a wash n brush-up of late, the revised versions being identifiable by their clear, wraparound headlights which soften the Getzs visage, giving it a more feminine look than its cubist predecessor. The black bumper inserts integrate far better with the number plate surround and upper specification cars feature fog lights that are now integrated design features rather than what appeared to be tucked away afterthoughts. Revised wheel trim and alloy wheel designs have completed the exterior upgrade. The cabin has been given a spruce up too, but again the changes are restrained.
Higher quality soft touch plastics and a centre console with better switchgear and superior ergonomics also feature but unless you were very well acquainted with the original car, chances are you wont spot the differences. The 1.1-litre engine that powers this entry-level Atlantic model has been revised to produce a fizzing 65bhp but needs to be kept on the boil to extract any meaningful performance. This petrol powerplant is good for 94Nm of torque, a sprint to 60mph in 16.
1 seconds and a licence-friendly top speed of 90mph. It now meets Euro IV emissions standards. Of course, a vehicle such as the Getz 1.1 is more orientated towards saving money than burning tarmac, and it performs that task impeccably.
It's at a natural advantage straight out of the blocks, Hyundai's five-year warranty shrinking running costs to a pittance. Factor in an average fuel economy of 51.4mpg and it becomes clear that the Getz 1.1 Atlantic is one of the most parsimonious superminis out there, in every sense.
Even around town, you can consider yourself unlucky should you travel less than 39 miles on a gallon, whilst out on the open road, figures the far side of 56mpg are realistically attainable. Although long distance work isn't the Getz's forte, it acquits itself reasonably well with a spacious cabin and comfortable seating. The steering is pleasantly weighty and cushions many road imperfections, as does the comfort-biased suspension set-up that makes short work of surface irregularities. Over longer frequency crests, it can feel a little floaty but that's a small price to pay for a ride that can handle the urban environment's least wanted potholes, ruts and speed humps. 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. Interior quality is on a par with rivals like the Citroen C3, but a little way shy of class best. Some of the plastics are a little unyielding but given the keen pricing, few will grumble. 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, it's realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren't 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. As a car for the young or even young at heart, the Getz Atlantic makes pretty good sense all round.
It looks cool, is well specified and Hyundai have cleverly priced it at around the £7,000 mark. Newer and younger customers may be the target group for this special edition, but dont be surprised if you see a significant number of their mums and dads at the wheel of this supermini. Spotting a bargain has no age barriers.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
CAR: Hyundai Getz Atlantic
PRICE: £8,017 - on the road
INSURANCE GROUP: 3A
CO2 EMISSIONS: 138g/km
PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 90mph / 0-60mph 16.1s
FUEL CONSUMPTION: Combined) 51.4mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, seatbelt pre-tensioners
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 3800/1600/1485
