Share

Need more seats? Try the H1 wagon

Hyundai’s H1 nine-seater luxury wagon, a runaway success since its launch in March 2009, is also available with the option of effortless turbodiesel power.

The 2.5-litre common-rail unit fitted to this capacious carrier is rated at 120kW at 3800rpm and 392Nm at 2000rpm and slots in above the existing 2.4-litre petrol model. This highly refined and smooth engine is available exclusively with a five-speed auto transmission, ensuring a level of refinement not normally associated with the class.

Of all-aluminium construction, the engine has a 91mm bore and a 96mm stroke resulting in smooth operation from idle to redline, while the DOHC  16-valve cylinder-head contributes to its exceptional fuel efficiency.

A look at the features and specifications list confirms the H1 2.5 VGTi’s upmarket positioning, with rear park distance control, alloy wheels, leather upholstery, air conditioner (along with four air vents and temperature and fan speed controls for rear occupants), and radio/CD with Auxiliary input all standard. This represents a package of comfort and convenience features unmatched by any of its rivals.



The newcomer to the H1 range is aimed primarily at the hospitality industry – it will be ideal for moving guests around in comfort and safety – but it is also to have appeal for retirement homes, corporates, and for those with large broods who like to travel en masse.

Whatever the role, a genuine ability to carry eight people and their luggage over long distances (or nine if the ‘occasional’ seat between the driver and front passenger is deployed) is its key strength: it isn’t an MPV and therefore doesn’t suffer from that category’s universal shortcoming of having minimal luggage space once the rearmost seats are in use.

Adding to its appeal in a working application is the 1500kg towing capacity of the two-pedal turbodiesel.

The volume of the H1’s geometric luggage compartment is an impressive 850 litres and, indeed, it is an immensely practical vehicle, designed to be put to work on a daily basis. The rugged design is built around front-engined rear-drive architecture, dual sliding doors, a massive and upright tailgate, and a ‘semi-bonneted’ nose.

This layout allows for a substantial front crumple zone and in addition, the H1 has a series of reinforced ‘rings’ aligned with the  key body pillars and linked with them across the floor and roof, and side impact protection beams in all four doors. An all-disc braking system with four-channel ABS and electronic control of the fore/aft distribution of hydraulic pressure ensure maximum retardation even when fully laden.

Two airbags and front seatbelts equipped with pre-tensioners are fitted.

When crash-tested by Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP), the H1 achieved four out of a possible five stars – a rating which puts it right up near the front of the class.



Safety and space have made the H1 so successful since launch and to that the turbodiesel adds miserly fuel usage: in mixed driving, the bus is expected to use only 10.1 litres/100 km, an excellent drag co-efficient of just 0:34 contributing to this healthy figure.  With an ability to cruise tirelessly as far as refinement and frugality goes, and the final ingredient needed to make it perfect as far as touring was concerned, was comfort.

To this end there’s a five-link, coil spring rear suspension to go with front and rear track widths which are the widest in the class. Handling characteristics are car-like, with confidence-inspiring road-holding. Rack and pinion steering ensures crisp responses while hydraulic assistance reduces the effort required in tight situations.

In fact, drivers will find the H-1 pleasingly easy to park and, along with the generous glass area and substantial mirrors, there is of course the parking distance control system fitted to the rear bumper.

The H1 2.5 VGT is sold with an industry-leading five-year or 150 000km warranty and a five-year or 100 000 km service plan and 15 000km service intervals contribute to low ownership costs and peace of mind.

All this adds up to a vehicle perfect for business – and for families that like room to manoeuvre.
Find out more from Hyundai SA's HOMEPAGE or FIND YOUR NEAREST DEALER to arrange a test drive.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE