Hyundai Getz: A Practical Small Car

In the fiercely competitive small car market, where manufacturers vie for your attention and your hard-earned cash, the Hyundai Getz emerged as a contender aiming to offer a sensible and affordable option. While European brands often push for premium pricing based on prestige and Japanese manufacturers consistently deliver reliable, competent vehicles, Hyundai's strategy has evolved significantly. Initially carving out a niche with its "drive-away-no-more-to-pay" policy, Hyundai successfully attracted a budget-conscious clientele. However, the brand has diligently worked to shed its "cheap-and-cheerful" image, introducing a new generation of vehicles that showcase improved build quality and design, with the Getz hatchback being a prime example of this upward trajectory.

Model Watch: The Hyundai Getz – A Global Ambition

Hyundai, the pioneering Korean automaker to arrive on the global automotive scene in the 1980s, has consistently demonstrated an aggressive and ambitious approach to market penetration. The company openly embraces its identity as a global player, developing its own products designed to compete head-on with established international rivals. With each new model release, Hyundai's offerings have seen a steady improvement in quality and appeal. The Getz is a testament to this in-house development, conceived with the explicit goal of standing its ground against the best small cars Europe had to offer, and by many accounts, it succeeded admirably.

Styling and Design: European Sensibilities

The Getz boasts a clean and attractive exterior design, leaning towards a European aesthetic. Its profile is well-balanced, with flowing lines that seamlessly transition from the neat front fascia to a functional rear. There are no jarring design elements that would detract from its overall appeal, making it a visually pleasing option in the small car segment. The designers clearly aimed for a universally appealing look, avoiding anything too radical or niche, which would typically alienate a broader audience.

Interior Space and Comfort: Practicality First

Step inside the Getz, and you'll find a surprisingly spacious interior that allows it to hold its own against class-leading small cars. The cabin layout is thoughtfully designed, creating a pleasant environment for occupants, especially during those inevitable stints stuck in urban traffic. The focus here is on practicality and usability, ensuring that everyday journeys are as comfortable and stress-free as possible. The interior space is a key selling point, offering a good balance for its size.

Driving Experience: Capable but Not Exciting

The true test of a great small car often lies in its driving dynamics. The best compacts are known for their nimble handling, responsive steering, and peppy engines that make navigating city streets an enjoyable affair. In comparison, the Getz, while competent, was often described as a little dull. The engines, while willing, were let down by taller gearing, which tended to dilute their potential performance. This meant that while the Getz could certainly get you from point A to point B, it wasn't a car that particularly inspired driving enthusiasts.

Engine Options and Transmission Choices

At the entry level, the Getz was typically equipped with a 1.3-litre single overhead camshaft engine, producing around 60 kW of power at 5500 rpm and 117 Nm of torque at 3200 rpm. For those seeking a bit more oomph, a 1.5-litre double overhead camshaft engine was also available, boosting the output to 74 kW at 5800 rpm and 133 Nm of torque at 3200 rpm. Buyers had the choice between a traditional five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences.

On the Road: Acceptable, But Lacking Engagement

The Getz's handling was generally considered acceptable. It was predictable and wouldn't catch drivers out, but the steering lacked a certain sharpness and felt somewhat vague. This meant that the driving experience was more about straightforward transportation rather than engaging dynamics. For those who prioritised a spirited drive, the Getz might have felt a little too sedate. Similarly, the ride quality was acceptable, but it suffered from a lack of proper damping. It had a tendency to float over larger undulations in the road, while conversely feeling harsh and unforgiving over bigger bumps. This underdamped ride could detract from the overall comfort on varied road surfaces.

Trim Levels and Features: Gradual Improvement

The Getz range was offered in both three-door and five-door hatchback configurations. The base GL model was fairly basic, coming standard with power steering, an engine immobiliser, and a four-speaker CD sound system. By 2003, air conditioning became a standard feature, and central locking was added, addressing some of the earlier omissions and making the car more competitive. The FX five-door model offered a step up in equipment, including air conditioning, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, and alloy wheels, enhancing its appeal. Additionally, the XL three-door variant, typically fitted with the 1.3-litre engine, offered a few more creature comforts than the standard GL.

In The Shop: Hyundai's Evolving Reputation

Hyundai has faced its share of challenges in building credibility with consumers over the years. The infamous "Excel fiasco," where the company initially seemed to downplay a serious welding issue in the front end, undoubtedly damaged its reputation. While Hyundai eventually rectified the problem and made amends, the incident left a lasting negative impression, not just on the brand but on Korean cars in general. It's a shame, as the Excel was, in many respects, a reliable and robust little car that didn't deserve the stigma it acquired. However, the Getz represents a new era for Hyundai. The company has made significant strides in improving the quality and build of its vehicles, and the Getz is a prime example of this progress. Hyundai's confidence in its improved product is underscored by its offering of a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, a strong indicator of their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. For anyone considering a small car, the Getz is certainly worthy of consideration, especially given its competitive pricing.

What to Look For When Buying a Used Getz

When inspecting a used Hyundai Getz, it's crucial to look for a comprehensive service history, paying particular attention to evidence of regular oil changes, as this is vital for engine longevity. Externally, examine the bodywork carefully for any dings, dents, or signs of accident repair. Mismatched paintwork or uneven panel gaps can indicate previous bodywork and may suggest underlying structural issues. The modest performance of the Getz should be expected, but ensure there are no unusual noises or running problems. Also, be aware of the impact of the tall gearing on fuel economy, as drivers often compensate for perceived sluggishness by pressing the accelerator harder, leading to increased fuel consumption.

In A Crash: Safety Considerations

In terms of safety, the Getz generally fell into the middle of the pack for its class. A driver's airbag was a standard feature across the entire range. The introduction of a passenger airbag in the 2003 update significantly improved its safety credentials, making post-2003 models a more attractive proposition for safety-conscious buyers. While it wasn't a class leader in crash test performance, the inclusion of airbags provided a basic level of protection.

At The Pump: Fuel Economy Realities

The Hyundai Getz is not the most fuel-efficient small car on the market. With average fuel consumption hovering around 10 litres per 100 kilometres, its thirst for fuel is noticeable. The tall gearing, as mentioned earlier, hinders its efficiency. Drivers often find themselves pressing the accelerator harder to achieve desired performance, which inevitably leads to more frequent and more expensive visits to the petrol station. This is a key consideration for buyers prioritising fuel economy.

Key Takeaways: What to Look For

• Modest Performance: Expect straightforward, not sporty, acceleration.
• Tall Gearing: Can affect perceived performance and fuel economy.
• Class Average Interior Space: Offers practicality for its size.
• Clean Attractive Styling: A visually pleasing design.
• Vague Handling: Competent but lacks driver engagement.
• Underdamped Ride: Can be floaty over bumps and harsh over sharp impacts.

The Bottom Line: A Worthy Effort

The Hyundai Getz was a commendable effort by Hyundai to establish itself in the highly competitive small car segment. It offered a practical, well-designed, and affordable package. While it lacked the refinement and dynamic prowess of some of its more established rivals, it provided a solid and dependable mode of transport. For buyers prioritising value for money and everyday usability over outright driving thrills, the Getz presented a compelling case. It represented a significant step forward for Hyundai, showcasing their commitment to improving their product offerings and challenging the status quo.

Overall Rating

60/100