Hyundai's refreshed H1 – everyone's favourite crew bus

By Chad Lückhoff

Hyundai's evergreen H1 bus has sold over 17 000 units since its introduction in 2009 and continues to sell well, catering for customers who are looking for an economical and practical shuttle bus, crew transporter and those with large families.

While the lineup remains largely unchanged, the vehicle itself has undergone an extensive face-lift with changes to both the interior and exterior, now boasting even more features than ever before. The stable consists of the 2.5-litre turbodiesel panel van, for those that need a workhorse, making the most of the 4 426-litre load area and 1 100kg payload capabilities. The two passenger derivatives are made up of the 2.4-litre Executive petrol with a manual gearbox and the 2.5-litre Elite turbodiesel with a 5-speed automatic.

The petrol engine offers 124kW and 224Nm with a claimed fuel consumption of 10.2l/100km, while the 2.5-litre diesel musters an equally impressive 125kW with 441Nm on hand. The diesel is claimed to return figures of 9.8l/100km. The diesel derivatives are also rated to tow 1 500kg, making it ideal for those long-haul journeys.

The update sees the H1 receive a new front-end, doing away with the two-slat grille and replacing it with a trapezoidal affair that draws it nearer to the SUV offerings in the Tucson and Creta. This deep, chrome-slat grille is flanked by smaller headlights that sit higher up on the “face” of the H1 and taper off in a three-dimensional fashion. The lower section of the bumper now sports a cosmetically enhanced air dam and the driving lights sit marginally higher in this trim piece. Projector headlights are now standard fare across the range and benefit from auto on-off functionality.

While the side profile is largely unchanged, the design team at Hyundai made the wing mirrors smaller and more SUV-like in their execution. While this doesn't provide as much rearward visibility as the ones previously, the reshaping and reduction in size means that there is less wind noise at highway speeds, all while providing ample visibility rearwards.

The new H1 also features new two-tone alloy multi-spoke wheels.

While the interior trim and finish of the new H1 is largely unchanged, the addition of an 8-inch touchscreen full-colour infotainment system is a welcomed addition, sporting USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity with integrated steering controls. Automatic climate control is still plumbed to the rear with controls for airflow positioned in the roof for rear occupants.

Safety is still a priority and the H1 makes use of dual airbags up front with seatbelt pre-tensioners and the safety cell is comprised of four high tensile steel rings to create a safe, but hidden roll cage for occupants. The addition of park assist and a rearview camera makes manoeuvring the large MPV easier than before.

ABS and EBD are standard across the range, with the 2.5 Elite model fitted with ESC (traction control) for additional peace of mind on rough or slippery surfaces.

The new Hyundai H1 is still as easy to drive and within no time one forgets the rather generous dimensions and is commandeering the sizeable 9-seater with aplomb. While a little more support wouldn't go amiss from the seats, one gets the impression that the H1 is designed with mileage and durability in mind.

The 5-speed automatic gearbox is expertly tuned to offer the best combination of economy and torque with silky smooth changes, going rather unnoticed – the way we like our autos. Torque from the 2.5-litre turbodiesel is more than adequate and may only feel the pinch should you be fully loaded and towing at the same time.

All Hyundai H1s come with a 5-year / 150 000km warranty and an additional 2-year / 50 000km powertain warranty (for a total of 7-years / 200 000km). The service plan is a 5-year / 90 000km plan with a roadside assistance package of 5-year / 150 000km.

Pricing

Hyundai H1 2.4 Executive Petrol Bus MT                     R499 900

Hyundai H1 2.5 Elite Diesel Bus AT                                  R629 900

Hyundai H1 2.5 Diesel Panel Van AT                                R455 900