I bought the car in Jan 2005 (Dec 2004 model). I have driven the car extensively in Delhi and a few long trips to Chandigarh and Agra. On completion of 10, 000 kms, here is my second feedback:
Exteriors: The vehicle is well built and designed. The head lights are powerful and fog lamps, though white in colour, increase the visibility while driving. The car is strong - no question of any dents or the body bending if you lean against it. I bought a forest green colour car - in 11 months, it still looks new. However, need to be careful while opening the doors - if the door hits against a pillar or another well built car, the pain on the edges of the door may chip off slightly.
Interiors: WOW is the word to describe it. The cabin is very spacious. Gears and panel well placed. The steering can be position at two levels - very useful if you tend to drive the car over long distance. I prefer to lower the height of the steering, as it is more comfortable. Space of legs is more than ample - both in front and back. Infact, even after pulling the front seats way behind, the leg space for rear passengers may be equal to what many mid-sized cars offer under normal seat positioning. The dikky is perfect for a week end get away. I have been for 2 trips for 3-4 days with my wife and kid, to Agra and Chandigarh, and had no luggage storage problems.
Driving and Handling: The car is excellent. At 2, 500-3, 000 rpm the engine acts like a turbo-engine and the car booms. I get a mileage of around 11 kmpl with the AC and 13 kmpl without the AC running. Getz handles curves well; at times I feel that I am too slow at the curve, even if I am at 70 km/ hr. Very sturdy in driving. However, I wish the car had a better pick up at 2, 000 rpm - I need to drop the gear one notch in order to get the ’’pull’’. In spite of this, I can cruise the car and accelerate from 15 km/ hrs in the 3rd gear - this just shows the great drivability of Getz in crowded cities like Delhi, Kolkata or Mumbai.
I have had to go to the dealer once to get the front arm joint changed, as the car would at times make a rumbling noise while take a turn. The dealer changed it at once and since then I’ve had not problems at all. Hyundai has done a good job.
Many people prefer the Swift to Getz, only because of the price differential. Sure, price is an issue - but so is quality. I would pay Rs 25000-50000 more for quality, comfort, reliability and safety, any day. Incidentally, I graduated from a mid sized car to the Getz - and it feels as big as, if not bigger, than a mid sized car, once you are in.
If I was to describe my experience with my Getz in one sentence, I’d say ’’It is a pleasure to drive this car any day and I have no regrets at all.
This car is perfect for people who primarily commute in cities and go for week end trips once a month. However, if you DO need a bigger luggage compartment, then look for another car with a big boot. Else, this car is more than perfect for all your needs.