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SA gets better Getz

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What is more is that the facelifted Getz offers even better value for money than before, which could make it an even more attractive buy if you are in the market for affordable wheels.

Although Hyundai doesn't release its official monthly sales figures to Naamsa, rumour has it that the Korean carmaker has sold about 26 000 Getz models since its launch in 2003. This is an impressive figure and one just has to look around you on the road to realise the Getz's popularity.

Now with the freshened-up model Hyundai is in gear to fight off tough competition from newcomers in its segment such as the Toyota Yaris. But the latest Getz has all what it takes to keep its position as one of the top selling small cars in South Africa.

Not only do you still get a lot of car for your money, but in its latest guise the Getz offers improved build quality, better fit and finish for the interior and a new 1.4-litre engine.

The latter replaces the outgoing 1.3-litre model and the best is that it has the same price tag as its predecessor.

This means that at R99 900 the entry-level Getz is one of the most affordable 1.4-litre cars you will get here. Furthermore this model is packed with features such as air-conditioning, all-round electric windows driver's airbag and electrical power steering.

At R121 900 you get the high-spec 1.4-litre model which gets ABS brakes with EBD, a passenger side airbag and an audio system. Next in line there is high-spec 1.6-litre model with a R129 900, while the range-topper automatic version comes in at R134 900.

New engine

Hyundai is ditching the Getz's 1.3-litre engine for a 1.4 liter unit, while retaining the 1.6-litre model. This new 1.4 litre delivers 71 kW at 6 000 r/min with 125.5 Nm torque at 3 200 r/min. Designed and developed with major input from the Hyundai R&D Center in Germany this new Getz is a truly refreshing new addition.

The tried and trusted 1.6 liter Getz offers 78kW at 5 800 r/min with 144.2 Nm at 3200 r/min and is available in manual as well as automatic transmission.

Later this year Hyundai will ad a new 1.5-litre turbodiesel to the range with a better output than its predecessor.

Hyundai hopes that the availability of a 1.4-litre model will boost Getz sales even further. With us there are no doubt that this model is a welcome addition to the Getz range. It is a smooth and lively engine, which can be worked pretty hard thanks to the Getz's good road manners and stability.

Despite the occasional gearing down to tackle a steep incline or to overtake other vehicles the engine never seems to really struggle. It can easily competes against the likes of a 1.4-litre VW Polo or Renault Clio.

New face

Hyundai also cleaned up the looks of the Getz and it has a new fully-integrated frontal treatment with a redesigned bonnet and new grille. It also comes with redesigned headlights and a new bumper with integrated fog lamps giving the front a cleaner and sportier look.

At the rear the changes are less visible but new taillights freshen things up.

Hyundai also upgraded the car's interior with better quality plastics giving the Getz a more solid feeling. There are also new trim for the seats.

The centre console has been redesigned as well featuring a new digital clock, more visible hazard warning button and a better location for the cigarette lighter lighter.

Along with the refinement of these features, Hyundai includes a new centre console tray that adds space for extra small items. The glove-box is now illuminated.

The Getz offers its driver flat folding rear seats with 60/40 split capability. With the rear seats folded double, there is an impressive 977 litres of useable luggage space.

Conclusion

There was never any doubt that the Getz was one of the best value for cars for about R100 000 but with the repositioning of the range and the introduction of a 1.4-litre engine it is clear that Hyundai is gearing up to make the Getz an even more prominent player.

Since the Getz's very successful introduction here about two years ago it helped to change the perception of Hyundai and the latest model will give the Korean carmaker and even further boost.

The latest Getz is still a practical and able little hatchback that should be worth considering if you are in the market for an affordable hatch offering good quality and most of all value for money.

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