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Sometimes, but not often, we drive the wrong car. Specifically, whenever we flounce off on yet another champagne-fuelled overseas test drive there's a reasonable chance that the car we sample won't quite be the same as the version that will actually be made available locally.
Such was the case with the Hyundai Avante, reviewed two issues ago. The car we drove in Australia was a 2.0-litre model. Local distributor, Komoco Motors, only intends to bring in the 1.6-litre variant, so here it is.
Visually there's nothing between either version, apart from smaller, 15-inch alloys on the 1.6-litre model. The overall shape is neat and contemporary, and happily free from the over-enthusiastic application of chrome.
The interior is one of the best in this class, both in terms of build and the quality of the materials used. In fact, the level of fit and finish is positively Japanese. Equipment levels are pretty decent, too, you get climate control and twin front airbags.
The instruments are clearly laid out and all the major controls fall easily to hand, there are plenty of storage spaces, too, including two giant cupholders behind the gearlever.
The 1.6-litre engine is a newly-developed 121bhp unit, and it features continuously variable valve timing to improve power and efficiency. The unit also pumps out 153Nm of torque and is mated to a tweaked, slick-shifting four-speed automatic gearbox.
The 2.0-litre Avante we tried out in the Gold Coast had impressive flexibility and came off as very smooth, if a little uninspiring sounding. The 1.6-litre version is very much cut from the same sort of cloth, but goes one better by being both smoother and quieter than its larger sibling.
While it doesn't offer ballistic performance, you wouldn't exactly call the 1.6-litre Avante slow. Floor the throttle off the line and the car zips forward with pleasing alacrity. The engine's delivery does peter out as you pass the 5,000rpm mark but for normal, everyday driving the power on tap should be more than adequate.
The Avante also proves to be an excellent fuss-free drive, the ride is great, with the suspension smothering the worst road imperfections with impressive aplomb. The model we drove in Oz didn't seem to ride well at low speeds, but thanks no doubt to the smaller wheel size, the 1.6-litre manages a much better job of it. The steering still takes a little getting used to, though.
Like the 2.0-litre model, the 1.6-litre's power steering setup is electrically assisted, and can feel odd when it self-centres. Other than that, there's nothing to complain about.
If you're in the market for an affordable sedan that's as comfy as it is well-built, then the Avante is seriously worth a look.
A SIMILAR CAR WE HAVE DRIVEN
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.6 (A) $53,988 with COE
You'd buy the Altis on the strength of the Toyota badge alone, but the Avante does offer a more up-to-date drive.
Such was the case with the Hyundai Avante, reviewed two issues ago. The car we drove in Australia was a 2.0-litre model. Local distributor, Komoco Motors, only intends to bring in the 1.6-litre variant, so here it is.
Visually there's nothing between either version, apart from smaller, 15-inch alloys on the 1.6-litre model. The overall shape is neat and contemporary, and happily free from the over-enthusiastic application of chrome.
The interior is one of the best in this class, both in terms of build and the quality of the materials used. In fact, the level of fit and finish is positively Japanese. Equipment levels are pretty decent, too, you get climate control and twin front airbags.
The instruments are clearly laid out and all the major controls fall easily to hand, there are plenty of storage spaces, too, including two giant cupholders behind the gearlever.
The 1.6-litre engine is a newly-developed 121bhp unit, and it features continuously variable valve timing to improve power and efficiency. The unit also pumps out 153Nm of torque and is mated to a tweaked, slick-shifting four-speed automatic gearbox.
The 2.0-litre Avante we tried out in the Gold Coast had impressive flexibility and came off as very smooth, if a little uninspiring sounding. The 1.6-litre version is very much cut from the same sort of cloth, but goes one better by being both smoother and quieter than its larger sibling.
While it doesn't offer ballistic performance, you wouldn't exactly call the 1.6-litre Avante slow. Floor the throttle off the line and the car zips forward with pleasing alacrity. The engine's delivery does peter out as you pass the 5,000rpm mark but for normal, everyday driving the power on tap should be more than adequate.
The Avante also proves to be an excellent fuss-free drive, the ride is great, with the suspension smothering the worst road imperfections with impressive aplomb. The model we drove in Oz didn't seem to ride well at low speeds, but thanks no doubt to the smaller wheel size, the 1.6-litre manages a much better job of it. The steering still takes a little getting used to, though.
Like the 2.0-litre model, the 1.6-litre's power steering setup is electrically assisted, and can feel odd when it self-centres. Other than that, there's nothing to complain about.
If you're in the market for an affordable sedan that's as comfy as it is well-built, then the Avante is seriously worth a look.
PLUSES:
Smooth 1.6-litre engine, well-built interior, roomy cabinMINUSES:
Odd-feeling electrically-assisted power steeringVERDICT:
An exceedingly well put together small sedan that deserves to do wellA SIMILAR CAR WE HAVE DRIVEN
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.6 (A) $53,988 with COEYou'd buy the Altis on the strength of the Toyota badge alone, but the Avante does offer a more up-to-date drive.
NEED TO KNOW
Model : Hyundai Avante 1.6 (A)Engine Type : 1,591cc 16v in-line 4
Maximum power : 121bhp at 6,200rpm
Maximum torque : 153Nm at 4,200rpm
Gearbox : 4-speed automatic
Top speed : 180km/h
0-100km/h : 12.2 seconds
Price : $63,999 with COE
Warranty : 3 years / 100,000km
Contact : Komoco Motors
Telephone : 6475-8888
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