Facelift for the i10

Hyundai's i10 has never been short of either buyers or plaudits, generally being venerated as one of the best, if not the best, in class since it was launched. Well, Hyundai has now given it an update and a refresh to keep it competitive.

The most obvious exterior change is the new 'cascading' grille, which gives the i10 a more distinctive, striking look at the front (and which makes it look just slightly like a Fiat Fiorino van...). There are new lights front and rear, new bumpers and some tweaks to things such as side mouldings.

Inside, there is only one dramatic change and that's the addition of a new seven-inch touchscreen multi-media system, but you're only going to get that on the highest spec models. For the rest of the i10 range, the only cabin changes are some colour and material updates.

That touchscreen system features the latest connectivity features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto guarantee seamless integration, safe operation and mirrored functionality of mobile devices based on iOS or the Android operating system. In order to be up-to-date at any time, the i10's navigation system comes with a seven-year free subscription to LIVE Services, offering real-time traffic conditions, local weather and points of interest as well as the position of speed cameras in countries where this is permitted by law. Hyundai claims that the i10 is the only car in its class to offer Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and LIVE Services in a single infotainment system.

The i10 does get some new safety features though, both based on the new multi-functional camera: a Front Collision Warning System (FCWS) and a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS - optional on most trims). Using front camera sensors, FCWS alerts the driver acoustically and visually about collision dangers arising from other vehicles. Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if unsafe movements are made while the car is driving over 60 km/h. The LDWS sounds an alarm before the car moves over lane markings.

There are also some small mechanical and chassis tweaks, including new softer bump stops for the suspension and lightly modified steering.

There is a choice of 1.0- and 1.25-litre petrol engines, globally, but it's likely that Ireland will, as with the current model, just get the option of the 1.0-litre.

Hyundai gives the updated i10 its world debut at the Paris Motor Show next month, alongside an all-new i30 hatchback.

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