2009 Hyundai i10 Style 1.2 petrol

Summary:

It's fine as a first car, nothing more

Faults:

Starting problems (Immobilizer): A common electrical issue. The system sometimes fails to recognize the key, preventing the engine from starting or causing it to stall while driving.

Coolant leaks and overheating.

Door actuators tend to wear out or suffer from corrosion, causing one of the doors to fail to lock via the remote control or the entire system to malfunction.

Premature suspension wear. Given its urban focus, it is common to hear metallic noises when driving over potholes or speed bumps. The bushings, sway bar links, and front shock absorbers require constant inspection.

General Comments:

If I had to list the car's strong points, the engine would be the standout, a highly reliable 1.2-liter unit with excellent fuel economy. It runs perfectly with minimal upkeep, requiring nothing more than routine servicing.

It is a high-performing and very adaptable engine for city driving.

I know it wasn't built for this, but on the downside, at speeds above 120 km/h, it not only vibrates like a car from the 70s but also makes an incredible amount of noise; so, if anyone is looking to buy a car like this, I’d recommend not exceeding 100 km/h. It also lacks the power to go any faster, though that’s understandable given its small engine.

Let me talk about the interior: yes, it’s basic, which is normal for a tiny city car like the i10, so I don't expect anything more.

But really, it shouldn't be just as uncomfortable (or even less comfortable)than a 40-year-old Charade. The seats are very hard and there’s hardly any space in the back; the materials range from average to poor quality. I had to replace an armrest and two electric window regulators—they made a horrible noise before finally breaking down completely.

The steering wheel wears out quite a bit, though that’s a minor issue.

Without exaggeration, I can say that my previous Twingo (which was much older)—was better built. It outperformed this one in almost every respect, especially on the highway, where it was much quieter. The i10 only beats it in terms of fuel economy; I think it was the worst car swap I’ve ever made.

To sum it up, it’s a car for a young person buying one with their first paycheck; beyond that, I don’t see any other use for it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 9th July, 2026