Hyundai ATOS gets an automatic gearshift

The Hyundai ATOS hatchback has received an added comfort feature in the form of a 5-speed automatic manual transmission to make this entry-level model in the Korean manufacturer’s local range an even more attractive choice in its market segment.

The Hyundai ATOS was launched almost two years ago in South Africa with a new, modern look and styling, and an impressive list of standard features. At the time of its launch, the ATOS was lauded for its spacious cabin, impressive ride and handling and low NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels.

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has now added the new ATOS 1.1 Motion derivative with a five-speed Automatic Manual Transmission (AMT) – an important comfort feature, especially for city drivers.

The ATOS, which slots into the local Hyundai range below the Grand i10, is still propelled by the free-revving 1,1 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that delivers excellent fuel consumption – an important consideration on the list of consumers who shop around in this segment of the car market.

“The successful introduction of the manual transmission derivative led us to examine an extension of the ATOS offering by adding the new derivative with a five-speed automatic manual transmission,” says Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director at Hyundai Automotive South Africa.

“Road tests over a 1 100 km route that ranged from sea-level to the high altitude of the Highveld – all done in on-the-road comparison with some of the model’s main rivals in its segment – were conducted before the green light was given for the launch of the ATOS 1.1 Motion AMT.”

The ATOS’ 1 086 cc engine now delivers it 50 kW maximum power at 5 500 revolutions per minute through a transmission that is essentially the same as the manual gearbox, but with the difference that it shifts the gears automatically.

The power, as well as the maximum torque of 99 Nm which comes at 2 800 r/min., compares very favourably with a range of competitors in its market segment. The ATOS 1.1 Motion AMT’s fuel consumption, tested in a real-world combined cycle, was measured at 5,9 litres per 100 km.

The complete list of features that the ATOS offers at a most competitive price has been a big selling point for the little hatchback. The good looks of the ATOS, with its modern stylish “tall boy design”, is another aspect of the car that attracts attention.

Body coloured front and rear bumpers and door handles, an attractive front grille and 14-inch steel wheels with attractive covers complete the exterior picture.

The ATOS is offered in colours ranging from Fiery Red to Polar White, Titan Grey, Nicobar Blue and Typhoon Silver.

The body shell – 3,61 m long and 1,64 m wide – houses a cabin that allows a lot of head space and leg room, with good visibility and ergonomics that ensures a comfortable ride.

The list of standard features includes:

• An infotainment system with a 7-inch touch screen, and with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity;
• An onboard computer;
• A multifunction steering with remote buttons for the radio, sound system and Bluetooth-connected cell phone;
• A dedicated USB charging socket that also serves as a connection point for Apple’s CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an extra 12V power socket;
• An air conditioner;
• Electrically controlled front side windows;
• Stylish, comfortable seats with durable cover materials;
• Central locking;
• Airbags for the driver and front passenger;
• An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to keep control under emergency braking, especially on a wet road;
• ISOFIX child safety seat attachment points on the rear seat bench.

At the front the ATOS uses McPherson struts with a stabilizer bar and coil springs for its suspension, and a coupled torsion beam axle with coil springs at the rear. Its small turning radius of 3,35 m and Motor Driven Power Assisted Steering system (MDPS) makes it an easy vehicle to manoeuvre in city spaces.

One of the most important features of the ATOS is the 7-year/200 000 km warranty that backs up the trust that Hyundai Automotive SA has in the quality and build integrity of the car.

A 1-year/15 000 km service plan and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km are also part of the package. Services are done at 15 000 km intervals (or annually).

The recommended retail prices (including VAT) of the range are:

• ATOS 1.1 Motion (manual) R175 500
• ATOS 1.1 Motion (AMT) R189 900

Article by QuickPic.