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Rating 1 star



Summary

Average. Likeable supermini with excellent standard equipment and a great warranty, but falling off the pace in terms of space and driving dynamics.

Review

Next time you hear someone make a quip about overpriced new cars in the UK, point them in the direction of the Getz. With its combination of generous standard equipment, Hyundai's brilliant five year warranty and a thoroughly inoffensive driving experience, it comes dangerously close to qualifying as a bargain.

The angular design is pleasing enough, although the Getz isn't really the sort of car that stands out from the crowd and shouts about your individuality. Inside, the cabin is well finished and with decent space for four occupants, but many of the materials feel a bit gloomy and cheap. Boot capacity is good for a supermini, though - and with the rear seats folded down the Getz is capable of a decent van impression.

The Getz drives well enough, too - certainly considering the likely demands of the sensible clientele who will be most attracted to it. Overall cornering limits are low, but it stays safe and predictable all the way up to them. Higher speed cruising is marred by lots of wind noise, though, although in its natural urban environment the Getz is happy enough.

The basic 1.1 litre petrol engine isn't the punchiest powerplant, but it's enthusiasm masks it's lack of all-out performance until you try to move bigger loads. The more powerful 1.4 litre petrol unit is far better - while the diesel, although impressively frugal - is loud and coarse by modern standards.

Breakdown

Styling 1 star

You couldn't be offended by the Getz's boxy looks - but you're unlikely to be excited by them, either.

Handling 1 star

Grip levels are modest and the front end breaks away if you try and get too keen in the corners.

Comfort 1 star

Apart from an occasionally bouncy ride the Getz is a reasonable place to spend time, although the driving position isn't great and there's lots of wind noise at motorway speeds.

Quality & reliability 1 star

Solidly constructed but without any of the sort of

Performance 1 star

The basic 1.1 litre petrol engine is definitely the most sensible powerplant in the range, but it really lacks urge out of town. 1.4 petrol motor is better - while the CRTD diesel, although frugal, is too loud for most.

Roominess 1 star

Not as big as some of the XL superminis that have followed it, but still relatively spacious inside and with a decently proportioned boot.

Running costs 1 star

Impressively cheap to run and own thanks to decent fuel economy, cheap servicing and good value insurance. Five-year warranty provides reassurance against unexpected costs, too.

Value for money 1 star

With even the most basic versions getting aircon, the Getz offers exceptional value at the bottom of the range - to the extent we can't see too much point in going for the more expensive versions.

Stereo / Sat nav 1 star

Standard CD-stereo gives adequate performance, although it only has four-speakers. Upgraded six-speaker set-up is noticeably better. Satnav unavailable.

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