Hyundai Xcent Review & Pictures: The 'X' Factor

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“The X Factor”

You’re probably already informed about the “sub-four meter” segment which is the latest buzzword in Indian automobile industry. From sedans to utility vehicles, no new budget car has remained unaffected from this viral thought, all in lieu to benefit from our government’s tax structure and ultimately attempt to offer the consumers more for less. For a “big car” hungry market like India, it has proved to be a deal of great benefit by compressing the size of so-called sedans and offering them at a price tag of hatchback. Big players like Maruti Suzuki and Honda are already reaping immense profits out of this concept for a while now with runaway success car models like Dzire and Amaze respectively. Being the second largest carmaker in India, Hyundai too with its aggressive strategies has decided it will leave no stone unturned.

Like others, Korean major has also utilized the platform of a hatchback, Grand i10, for transmuting it into a sedan for growing markets. The R&D team has certainly done their homework right because of which the name of this car instantly strikes a chord in the hearts of several people. Hyundai Accent had a repute of reliability and all-around dynamics which made it an ideal car for cities and highway commute alike. That’s precisely what Hyundai is now looking to convey with Xcent even though it’s technically nowhere related to the former model. Just that ‘X’ has replaced the ‘A’ to denote Generation-X. The target consumers for Xcent are married couples and modern individuals in their late 20s – 30s. Going by the record of Grand i10, one can safely predict this car to be another sensation from Hyundai. But will Xcent ‘xcite’ you? Read on.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Looks and Design

Look at the Xcent head on and it becomes tough to differentiate it from the Grand i10. Overall elements of design are untouched which makes it appear an absolute sedan-ized version of hatchback sibling. Our test car in white neatly emphasizes each fluidic curve and line flowing throughout the silhouette. Sharp headlamps sitting on a short hood and a wide hexagonal grille on front bumper further complement an adorable yet aggressive form. Stylish airdam like housing for rounded front foglamps are another point of attraction, maintaining this Hyundai’s sportiness in harmony with lineup. But in contrast to most sub-four meter sedans, side profile is one of the better looking angles of Xcent.

Pictures might not do full justice but in truth, it doesn’t at all seems that Xcent is among those sedans which are deliberately shrunken to accommodate under a certain length. Particularly in comparison to Dzire and Indigo eCS likes, this isn’t the one simply with a boot slapped on a hatch. To most, the design would appear an exact replica of Grand i10 till rear door, though a closer look indicates otherwise, reason being that the roof begins slanting much earlier and top edge of the rear door has been slightly curved in order to make the design smoother and flawless. Moreover, black painted window frames and B-Pillar support in balancing the overall stance as well. This leaves us in no doubt that the designers have paid enough attention to ensure it looks like a proper sedan.

The rest of the side view is identical to Grand with well-stamped wheel arches and an individual shoulder line. Unusual shape of rub guards equipped on doors visually assists keeping the height proportionate to length. Top-end variant of Xcent runs on 175/60 R15 Bridgestone tyres while lower variants receive 165/65 R14. This set of rubber is accompanied to stylish diamond cut alloys (on top-end) that certainly add to the sophisticated form factor of this car. To simply put, rear end design is love it or hate it. Fluidic philosophy has been kept to minimum, making the Xcent a modest looker.

Primarily occupying a major part of the boot is registration plate area which is embedded with a sleek chrome stripe on top. Tail lamps are borrowed from Grand i10 after slight alteration. The rear bumper design is another all-new aspect. All it has is a smooth curved line flowing around bottom with sleek reflector stripes mounted on each corner. One couldn’t make out whether the car is Petrol or Diesel version by glancing at rear. The VTVT or CRDi badge is rather seen only on driver’s side front fender.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Interiors and Comfort

Getting inside the Grand i10 always brings a smile on my face. Xcent is no different. The dashboard with an exceptional fit and finish has been carried over straight from the hatchback, though at the same time there are also some panels which do not feel as superior but unquestionably overall it gets an advantage in this segment. Despite of using same components, there are certain distinguishing factors on the inside. To begin with, center console features a lid which is a very welcome addition. Then the seat fabric is now fully beige. Yet, the most notable inclusion is the availability of climate control on top variants which is sorely missed on Grand i10.

Apart from it, other features continue to be the same. Such as an in-built CD, Aux-in, USB compatible head unit with 1GB storage, cooled glove box, electrically foldable ORVMs, engine start-stop button to name a few. Some forum members had asked us to check the air conditioner performance. During our test in relatively high temperature at Hyderabad, the car did not disappoint. While it’s true that compressor takes its own time to cool initially but it’s only a matter of minutes when the cabin temperature completely settles down. Thanks to climate control, it further aids to automatically adjust to the optimum settings. With introduction of rear A/C vents, Hyundai has poled a flag in yet another segment to offer this feature.

Front seats are wide and offer decent amount of support for long trips. But there is still certain cost cutting here with integrated head rests (not so on rear seats). There’s an adequate view of the road ahead from driver’s seat but short drivers are likely to have little inconvenience due to limited travel of seat height adjuster and fairly high placement of dashboard. The instrument cluster backlits the time engine is turned on (regardless whether parking lights are on or not) in order to offer a crystal clear view throughout the drive. Embedded multi-information screen features vital information about the car such as average speed, dual trip meters, digital clock and gearshift indicator on Petrol version that informs the driver when it’s ideal to upshift or downshift the gears to extract most favorable fuel efficiency figures. The seatbelt buzzer too is a useful add-on to habituate those Indians who still don’t bother to buckle up.

Hyundai has done an admirable job with the rear bench. Its dimensions are similar to that on Grand i10 but the seat now features a large center armrest with cup holders as well as a small integrated headrest for the middle seat passenger which most suitably has to be a child since this seat is best suited for two full sized adults. Just like front, it offers sufficient space and under thigh support. Additionally, both headrests are adjustable and occupants are also facilitated with a 12V socket located under rear AC vents.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Performance, Safety and Verdict

Hyundai Xcent utilizes the same set of engine options as Grand i10. We’ve driven both. Petrol engine is the exact proven 1.2 liter, 4 cylinders, and 16 valves Dual VTVT Kappa2 motor that churns out 83 PS @ 6000 RPM and 11.6 Kgm torque @ 4000 RPM. The VTVT (Variable Timing Valve Train) mechanism is applied to both, inlet and exhaust port in order to optimize opening and closing of valves and electronic throttle control assists in precise control of air intake. Therefore, improving engine’s overall efficiency and emissions. Furthermore, the low friction timing chain has a fine finishing and processed surface in attempt to bring down overall NVH levels. Being petrol, it’s obviously peppier and packs relatively more punch for high speed driving. However, it evidently lacks low-end torque, resulting in frequent downshifts at certain occasions.

Driving a diesel version back to back after petrol, on the other hand, was a pleasant experience. The car instantly surged ahead and perfectly climbed an incline which petrol struggled to drive upon on a higher gear. This 1.1 Liter diesel mill with 3 Cylinders and 12 Valves is marginally tweaked over Grand i10 and hence produces power of 72 PS @ 4000 RPM and maximum torque of 18.4 Kgm between 1750 RPM – 2500 RPM. There’s negligible turbo lag and it has a strong mid range but the power begins to settle down soon after crossing three digit mark. The CRDi loses breath approx. 20 Kmph earlier than petrol counterpart.

An ECU controlled solenoid valve for precise control of waste gate mechanism to regulate air flow into the engine has assisted Hyundai engineers to achieve a balance between better torque output as well as low-end performance and mileage. Turbine housing on CRDi engine has also been integrated with exhaust manifolds to eliminate joints. Thereby causing minimum loss of the flow and an improved back pressure. Both the engines are coupled to a slick shift 5 speed manual gear lever which is a delight to operate. While Petrol variants have a normal gearshift pattern, diesel’s gearshift has reverse first like Volkswagen Polo. Those who prefer to avoid the fuss of manual also receive a choice of four speed automatic transmission petrol variant.

For a sedan which is primarily focused towards family car buyers, one cannot complaint Xcent for not being “enthusiastic” enough. A light steering wheel, which is leaps better than rest of the Hyundais, and soft pedals make this car a breeze to operate in traffic conditions. Under legal high speeds, it remains stable and just does the job. The longer suspension travel nicely filters out potholes, at the same time handling is quite respectable too but steering somehow fails to inspire adequate confidence for sharp cornering. I pointed out about me taking a while to get used to brakes in Grand i10 review, though this time it wasn’t the case (Probably because I’ve driven both Hyundais for long enough to be familiar). All said and done, Xcent serves best when used for what it’s essentially designed: Sedate driving.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Likes, Dislikes and Report Card

You'll Love:

> Absolute value for money. Attractive price tag.

> Plenty of practical features (some are first in class).

> Neat design. One of the better looking sub-four meter cars.

> High quality interiors, overall fit and finish. Nice ergonomics too.

> Hyundai’s sales and after sales network is only next to Maruti Suzuki.

You'll Loathe:

> The diesel version gives up a bit too early on high speeds.

> Not meant for enthusiasts. Petrol version leaves something to be desired.

> Missing split folding function on rear seats, therefore limiting the car's utility.

> Perfect only for four adults. Accommodating the third passenger on rear seat will be congestion.

> Xcent has a better steering wheel among Hyundais. Yet, there’s still considerable scope of improvement.

Hyundai Xcent Star Ratings:

> Design and Quality..................:

> Comfort and Features.............:

> Engine and Performance.........:

> Handling and Ride Quality.......:

> Safety and Security Levels......:

> Overall Fuel Consumption.......:

> Sales and Service Network.....:

> Value For Money Factor...........:

> The Automotive India’s Verdict:

Here's how to interpret above ratings: http://www.theautomotiveindia.com/f...ive-india-reviews-star-ratings-explained.html.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Price, Misc Points and Feedback

Hyundai Xcent Price (Ex.showroom, Delhi):

Petrol (Manual)

> Base: Rs.4,65,988

> S: Rs.5,31,703

> S (O): Rs.5,56,710

> SX: Rs.6,22,116

> SX (O): Rs.6,47,126

Petrol (Automatic)

> S (O): Rs.6,28,594

> SX (O): Rs.7,19,009

Diesel (Manual)

> Base: Rs.5,56,895

> S: Rs.6,23,059

> S (O): Rs.6,48,064

> SX: Rs.7,13,471

> SX (O): Rs.7,38,480

Miscellaneous Points:

> Hyundai conducted extensive research through customer clinics across India since it's entering in this segment for first time.

> The ARAI claimed mileage of Hyundai Xcent is 19.1 Kpl (Petrol Manual), 16.9 Kpl (Petrol Automatic) and 24.4 Kpl (Diesel).

> Hyundai doesn't take responsibility of malfunctioning of certain parts supplied by external vendors. Such as tyres, batteries etc.

> You can take out manual key which is neatly integrated into remote by pressing tiny silver button if remote runs out of battery.

> Similarly, it is also possible to start the car in case remote control has low battery by directly pushing it against start-stop button.

> If the car is used for commercial purpose, warranty is 24 months / 40,000 Kms opposed to regular 24 months / unlimited kilometers.

Feedback To Hyundai:

> MID also needs to show distance to empty / average fuel efficiency data.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Comparison, Technical Specifications and Brochure

Comparison: Hyundai Xcent vs Maruti Swift Dzire vs Honda Amaze

Hyundai Xcent Technical Specifications:

Petrol

> Engine: 1197 CC, 4 Cyl, 16 Valves

> Power: 83 PS @ 6000 RPM

> Torque: 11.6 Kgm @ 4000 RPM

> Transmission: 5 Speed Manual / 4 Speed Automatic

> Kerb Weight: 1100 Kgs

> ARAI Claimed Fuel Efficiency: 19.1 Kpl

Diesel

> Engine: 1120 CC, 3 Cyl, 12 Valves

> Power: 72 PS @ 4000 RPM

> Torque: 18.4 Kgm @ 1750 - 2500 RPM

> Transmission: 5 Speed Manual

> Kerb Weight: 1200 Kgs

> ARAI Claimed Fuel Efficiency: 24.4 Kpl

> Front Brakes: Disc

> Rear Brakes: Drum

> Front Suspension: McPherson Strut

> Rear Suspension: Coupled Torsion Beam

> Fuel Tank: 43 Liters

> Boot Space: 407 Liters

> Length: 3995 MM

> Width: 1660 MM

> Height: 1520 MM

> Wheelbase: 2425 MM

> Front Track: 1479 MM

> Rear Track: 1493 MM

> Tyre Size: 165/65 R14 | 175/60 R15 (Top Version)

> Ground Clearance: 165 MM

Exterior Color Options:

> Sleek Silver

> Pristine Blue

> Red Passion

> Twilight Blue*

> Pure White*

> Phantom Black*

Asterisk (*) denotes our choice of colors.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Videos

Hyundai Xcent Petrol Interior NVH

Hyundai Xcent Petrol Exterior NVH

Hyundai Xcent Petrol High Speed NVH

Hyundai Xcent Diesel Exterior NVH

Hyundai Xcent Diesel Exterior NVH (Hood Closed)

Hyundai Xcent Turning Diameter

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

Pointers from presentation.

Scenic Shots

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

Hyundai Xcent and Ford EcoSport. Both are sub-four meter cars. Yet so different.

Pictorial Comparison: Hyundai Xcent and Maruti Swift Dzire.

This particular Dzire has a story of its own (Details: http://www.theautomotiveindia.com/f...enes-tai-s-official-reviews-2.html#post378082)

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

Unlike other Hyundais, Grand i10 and Xcent’s hexagonal grill is split from the main radiator grille.

Short hood greatly supports in balancing the looks from side view.

Sporty housing for front foglamps.

These diamond cut alloys certainly deserve a place in this thread: http://www.theautomotiveindia.com/forums/indian-auto-news/4367-indian-cars-best-oem-alloys-ever.html.

Sharp but cute looking headlamps.

Taillamps are picked straight from Grand i10 after slight alteration.

Notice the neat slant of the roof as it approaches towards rear.

Hyundai calls this 'Micro Roof Antenna'.

Stylish chrome door handles are standard on SX version.

These door rub guards might look unusual to some at first glance.

The designers have tried to be on a safer side with not-so-fluidic rear.

Essentially, this area is the only difference in Xcent over Grand i10.

Neatly hidden rear parking camera. The screen shows up on inside rear view mirror as soon as reverse gear is engaged.

No fuel type marking on fuel lid.

The exhaust pipe has been nicely concealed underneath.

Simple rear reflectors opposed to those on Grand.

 

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

This is Hyundai Xcent Diesel

Apparently, one can't make out whether it's Petrol or Diesel by looking at rear. The badge is instead located on driver's side front fender.

Sleek ORVMs cover an adequate range.

Size of front and rear windscreen.

Some fluidic pattern flowing around on the cowl as well.

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

High quality interiors. They're also fully borrowed from the hatchback.

Press clutch and simply tap on this button. You're all set to move.

The instrument cluster remains backlit even during daytime for clarity.

No dead pedal.

Polo / Vento like hood unlock lever.

Hyundai's classic fuse box featuring OBD Port and global cut-off switch.

Different reverse gearshift pattern on Petrol and Diesel. Image on right is of Diesel.

The in-built headunit can store songs upto 1 GB. Climate control is truly a welcome addition.

Another nice touch: The compartment next to gearshift on Xcent is covered.

Translating, you can now leave your phones / iPods for a short while without worrying.

This car has plenty of practical touches. Here's again one of them. A seperate cup and bottle holder.

Dashboard surface above is flat enough. You can store a few light documents and stick that idol, perfume et al.

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Hyundai Xcent: Pictorial Review

Glovebox has a reasonable space. A vent connecting from main A/C unit helps keeping it cool.

Good view from inside rear view mirror. Parking sensors and camera comes to rescue when needed to park in tight spots.

Only single interior reading lamp.

Mic to attend calls via Bluetooth connectivity.

Passenger side sun visor has a vanity mirror while the one on driver's side gets ticket holder.

Here's how it appears in Xcent when you look back from the driver's seat.

All four door pockets are fairly slim. Best for holding a liter bottles.

Surprisingly, seat back pocket is available only on passenger side and that too on S and SX variants.

Xcent introduces first in class rear AC vents in sub-four meter sedan segment. There's also a 12V socket below the vents.

Nearly flat transmission tunnel hump visually helps increasing a sense of legroom.

View of Hyundai Xcent rear seat. It's supposedly slightly more reclined than in Grand.

The rear seats also offer a large armrest with dedicated cupholders.

Here's our friend Rohit comfortably sitting on the rear seat after a long drive.

A view of the legroom with both seats on extreme positions.

407 Liter boot space is biggest in this segment. It easily gulped two day luggage of two persons.

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Disclaimer: This road test was conducted in a media drive event organized by Hyundai. All expenses for such events are borne by the manufacturer.​