The Hyundai Atos is a popular choice for new drivers and budget-conscious buyers in South Africa. The previous-generation Atos was a highly successful nameplate, selling over 45,000 units alone, and is still spotted regularly on our roads. After thorough testing, Hyundai SA decided that the Atos should be resurrected to compete in a very important market segment. Does it have what it takes? (Read everything you need to know about the Atos, here.)
Features
In order to attract younger buyers, Hyundai added a very generous amount of comfort and convenience features and their efforts seem to have paid off — it's better equipped than most of its similarly-priced competitors and has raked in a few awards along the way. Here are some of the spec highlights in the latest Atos:
- An infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, featuring Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth;
- A trip computer;
- A multifunction steering wheel satellite controls for the radio, sound system, and smartphone;
- A USB port/charging point for your phone that connects to Apple CarPlay, as well as an extra 12V power socket;
- Air-conditioning;
- Electric windows in the front;
- 2 x frontal airbags
- Anti-lock (ABS) brakes
- ISOFIX child seat anchorage points on the outer rear seats
- A 7-year / 200 000 km warranty and a 1-year service plan and roadside assistance for 7 years / 150 000 km.
Price
When the Atos touched down in January 2019, it was priced at only R159 900. Its last list price was R190 900 (correct at the first time this article was published) for a new model got getting rather steep, just like many of its rivals. However, 2019 Hyundai Atos models with mileage of up to 16 000 km, could be found for as little as R120 000.
Safety
Safety-wise, the Atos received a two-star safety rating, which isn't ideal but in this segment, it's about the going rate. If safety is an issue, you should certainly look into (used) cars that obtained a better safety rating, such as the Toyota Etios, Kia Picanto, Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 108, and Renault Sandero.
Related: Compact hatchback shootout! Toyota Agya vs Hyundai Atos vs Kia Picanto
Verdict
The Atos scores highly as an entry-level car, as it doesn't cost much to keep on the road (fuel consumption is a low 5.2 litres per km, on average), and it's a quality competitor in the segment. The boot is very small though, so if you are unable to travel light, perhaps you should opt for something slightly bigger.
The Atos isn't perfect, however. The driver's seat isn't height-adjustable and neither is the steering wheel, and testers report that the driving position is a little awkward at first. This problem also affects the Suzuki S-Presso, SA's cheapest car. This hasn't prevented the Atos from being selected as the top budget buy by selective automotive publications, though: Apart from the amount of in-car tech, some of the most outstanding features in the Atos are the quality of the interior, its 4-cylinder engine, and the Atos's fun-to-drive dynamics.In conclusion, the Hyundai Atos is a great choice for new drivers and budget-conscious buyers in South Africa. It offers a range of features that help it stand out in the crowded entry-level car market. While it may not have the best safety rating, it is still a quality competitor in the segment.
Competitors
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Suzuki Celerio
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Toyota Agya
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