Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Introduces New Hyundai i10 Variant

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors has introduced a new variant of the Hyundai i10, one equipped with a more powerful and modern 1.25-litre Kappa engine in place of the current 1.1-litre Epsilon unit. Locally-assembled, the i10 1.25 is priced at RM 49,688 (on-the-road) for the standard-spec version and RM 52,688 for the high-spec version (which adds dual airbags and anti-locking brakes).

The all-aluminium, 16-valve, DOHC 1.25-litre Kappa engine generates 80 hp and 112 Nm, some margin more powerful than the 1.1-litre Epsilon unit's 66 hp and 99 Nm. The electric power steering system and four-speed automatic transmission of old continue to be in used.

The modern Kappa engine features reverse intake and exhaust manifolds, an offset-mounted crankshaft, long-reach spark plugs, beehive valve springs, lightweight ECOFORM pistons and the use of plastic material for the intake manifold and engine valve cover, all of which go towards lowering the fuel economy.

Cosmetic changes for the i10 1.25 include new alloy wheels, revised bumpers, a redesigned rear spoiler. Three colours, Crystal White, Deep Ocean Blue and Oyster Grey, are on offer, with the latter two being exclusive to the new i10 variant. Already available for test drive and viewing at showrooms across Malaysia, the i10 1.25 comes with a five-year/300,000km extended warranty.

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors is also marketing the 2010 FIFA World Cup Edition i10, which comes with various countries' flag decals atop its roof (see photo), although only 200 units are on offer. If the flag and limited numbers do not seal the deal for you, maybe the free 42" plasma TV that accompanies each World Cup Edition i10 would.