Battle of the entry-level hatches
Whether you are a university student, pensioner, or just your average commuter looking for a frugal city runabout, the A0 entry-level car is the first stop for many buyers. These super compact city cars may be small but are big on attitude, and several Eastern manufacturers are tightly battling this market segment.
Related: 2024 Kia Picanto - First Drive Review
Hailing from South Korea, Hyundai and Kia have boldly fought in this segment for over 20 years. We have had several versions of the Picanto from Kia and Hyundai, the i10 or, as we now know, the Grand i10. After two decades of duelling it out, which of these diminutive hatchbacks is the better option? Let's crunch the numbers!
Hyundai Grand i10 vs Suzuki Swift vs Citroen C3: Which one has the lowest running costs?
Engine and Drivetrain
| Kia | Hyundai | |
| Engine | 1.0 3-cylinder | 1.0 3-cylinder |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 4-speed auto | 5-speed manual (4-speed auto only available in 1.2 model) |
| Power figures | 44kW / 94Nm | 44kW / 95Nm |
| Top speed | 153km/h | 155km/h |
With both Korean brands offering near identical powertrains, it comes down to driving dynamics and personal taste.
Fuel consumption
| Kia | Hyundai | |
| Fuel tank size (litres) | 35 | 37 |
| Claimed consumption | 5.1L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Actual consumption | 5.0 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Distance on a tank | 670km | 650km |
Hyundai and Kia have very similar consumption figures, so it may go down to load capabilities.
Safety
| Kia | Hyundai | |
| ABS | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | No |
| Hill hold assist | No | No |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | No | No |
| Camera | Rearview | Rearview |
| PDC (Park Distance Control) | Yes | No |
| Airbags | 2 (driver and passenger) | 2 (driver and passenger) |
| Cruise control | No | Yes |
| Rear window wiper | No | Yes |
| Fog lights | No | Yes |
| Side indicators in side mirrors | No | Yes |
| LED Lighting | No | Yes |
Both marques offer very similar safety features. However, the Hyundai does come with a few more extras, but they will cost you.
The Drive
Having had the opportunity in 2024 to drive both vehicles, Hyundai has a slightly more dynamic and sporty offering, while the Kia is a more practical and inoffensive style. The Hyundai seems to have the more composed suspension setup and interior fitment and, in terms of overall interior, is the more spacious. The Kia, though, offers a no-nonsense drive that harkens back to the honest motoring we grew up with.
| Kia | Hyundai | |
| Boot Space (litres) | 255-1010 (seats down) | 360-910 (seats down) |
Pricing
| Kia | Price | Hyundai | Price |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 LX manual | R 260 995 | Hyundai Grand i10 1.0 Premium hatch | R 224 900 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 LX auto | R 278 995 | Hyundai Grand i10 1.0 Executive hatch | R 269 900 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 EX auto | R 302 995 | Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 Premium Hatch MT | R 269 900 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 LX Runner panel van manual | R 284 900 | Hyundai Grand i10 1.0 Premium Cargo panel van | R 249 500 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 LX Runner panel van auto | R 302 900 | Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 Premium Cargo panel van | R 289 900 |
Kia offers a 5-year / Unlimited km warranty and a 2-year 30 000km service plan, whereas Hyundai offers a 7-year / 200 000km warranty and a 1-year / 150 000km service plan.
Verdict
Regarding engines and drive, both vehicle makers are on par, and there is very little to separate the two. Kia does have a few more options in its model lineup and is priced accordingly. Still, Hyundai offers a little more in terms of its standard fitment and warranty service plans, even though they are priced slightly lower for near equivalent models. Both are on par with each other, and the decision depends on personal styling tastes.
