Overall: It has the attitude that the regular Accent does not.
Looks: Right from the Shark Jaw styling in the front to the semi notch back. And it does come in that red which stands out from the crowd. Even the black and whites stand out in the crowd. One at the front and you’ll know its not the usual Hyundai stable sedan.
Power: At 105 BHP and rough sporty torque delivery this one does clip. The ride is smooth. The mid range power deliver while you’re in at the third gear makes it a comfortable ride. You can move it almost like a motor bike. Whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway its wow. It does a tops of 170 kms/hr.
Performance: Lets start from the AC. Especially since I live in Chennai. Even in peak summer its brings memories of wintery afternoons with a bright sun outside while you’re feeling cool, almost a slight nip in air. What’s more, the AC does not affect the power anywhich way.
The riding posture is just right for tall and big guys with ample space to sit. The gear shift is smooth and comfortably placed. A small flick of the wrist can do the trick to change and go VRRROOOM. Especially when going down from the Fifth to the Third. Did you know that all Viva’s come with Bridgstone sports radials? Fitting finish to the sports feel.
Comes with a Kenwood tape player built in, Hyundai could’ve throw in a CD player to make it rock.
Headlights, sidelights and fog lamps enough to take on the nights at most highways.
For all of the performance you need to watch the fuel. Does not deliver more than 7 or 8 at best in city conditions and about 12 or 13 on the highway.
Interiors: While most of it like the regular Accents, the gear shaft is packaged different with some chrome on the knob. Interior quality could’ve been a little better.
Space Ample leg room for three six footers and maybe one a little less. Can seat five average sized Indians comfortably without any question. While the semi notch design eats some of the boot space its still good enough to take you on a long trip... add to it the capability to fold the back seat to accomodate more (just in case three of you’re travelling.
Service Cost ownership is something all Hyundai cars can pride themselves for. They’ve got their act together, its peace of mind without a huge dent in the pocket.