9 February 2011
New car report; A numbers game.
Car company execs are always telling us they foresee an increase in sales volumes when they launch a new model onto the market, and Hyundai New Zealand Chief Operating Officer, Tom Ruddenklau is no different, telling us that the recently launched Hyundai i45 will sell triple the volume of the Sonata it replaces.
Having found buyers for 380 Sonata's in 2009, Hyundai New Zealand has forecast an annual volume of 1,000 units for their new i45.
The name Sonata remains in some markets, but here in New Zealand Hyundai has gone away from naming their cars in favour of numbering. In future all passenger cars will have the "i" prefix here, while SUV's will be given the "ix" prefix, a la the recently released Tucson replacement, ix35.
The new i45 also represents something of a departure for Hyundai who have been very vocal in recent times about their success as a diesel brand. The i45 has been launched with no diesel, but the option of two four cylinder petrol engines, a 2.0 litre and a 2.4. We're told that diesel power will be coming in 2011 with the arrival of an i45 wagon. No V6 is on the radar.
Output for the 2.0 i45 four cylinder DOHC MPI (Multi point injection) engine is 122kW at 6,200rpm and 198Nm of torque at 4,600rpm. The 2.4 powerplant is also a four cylinder DOHC unit, but with GDI (Direct Injection) producing 148kW at 6,300rpm and 250Nm of torque at 4,250rpm.
Design studios in Korea, USA and Germany have had input into the i45.
A strikingly good looker, the i45 continues Hyundai's modern styling direction, having completed the transition from building budget no frills models, through to conservatively styled dependable transport to the point where they are now truly aspirational.
Four models are offered, the i45 2.0, i45 2.4, i45 2.4 Elite and the range-topping i45 2.4 Elite Limited. All models have a six speed automatic transmission.
Alloy wheels with a full size alloy spare are featured across the range, varying in size from 16 inch for the i45 2.0, 17 inch for the i45 2.4 and 18's for both Elite models.
All get cruise control, a trip computer, USB and auxiliary inputs for iPod and other audio devices, a multi function steering wheel, an electro chromatic rear view mirror, paddle shifter on the steering wheel, and a full array of safety equipment including ESP, six airbags and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
The 2.4 models up get leather seat bolsters and auto light control, while Elite models add leather seats, proximity key, an upgraded audio system, climate air conditioning, front and rear seat warmers, rain sensing wipers, sport suspension, and rear parking sensors. The only addition the Elite Limited gets over the Elite is a Panoramic sunroof.
Build quality is first rate, with all controls clear and easy to decipher. A well laid out instrument panel, good quality soft touch materials and high quality finishes all combine to create an executive level cabin ambience.
Thumbs down though for leaving Bluetooth off the standard equipment list.
With handsfree phone calling now being the only legal method of a driver communicating with the outside world from a motor vehicle, it's surprising that an all new model to our market leaves this important safety feature out.
At 4,820mm in length the i45 is only 74mm shorter than a Holden Commodore and offers ample space for five adults and all their luggage. It is impressively quiet and comfortable for long distance cruising, soaking up uneven surfaces well, while offering lively power delivery and four cylinder fuel economy.
Fuel consumption is impressive, with Hyundai claiming 7.6L/100km for the i45 2.0 and 7.9L/100km for all 2.4 litre models.
Braked towing weight is 1,300kg for the i45 2.0 and 1,700kg for 2.4 litre models.
Pricing ranges from $41,990 for the i45 2.0, $44,490 for the i45 2.4, $48,990 for the i45 2.4 Elite and for those who must have the panoramic sunroof, the i45 Elite Limited retails for $51,990.