Review of the new Hyundai Getz 1.5 CRTD Range

To tell the truth, it came as a bit of a surprise to hear that Hyundai were launching a diesel version of their hot selling Getz supermini, the reason being I'd assumed that they were offering a diesel model already. A quick perusal of their model range revealed that I'd been labouring under a misapprehension. Despite the massive popularity of little diesels in this country, the Getz had been battling with one arm behind its back. The oil-burner arrived and sold strongly, so strongly in fact that there are now two CRTD engines in a mildly facelifted Getz line-up. Both deserve to sell like hot cakes - or at least, their Korean equivalent, hot tteok.

Buying a diesel Getz isn't as simple as it once was. Today there are two distinct versions of the 1.5-litre CRTD turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine to choose from. The first generates 87bhp and the second pumps out 109bhp, an output that could almost see it achieve sporty warm hatch status. The current Getz has also received a mild facelift with reshaped wraparound headlamps and black inserts in the bumper.

Generating 87bhp of power, the lesser of the two CRTD units may not be hugely muscular but with such a compact car to haul off the mark, it turns in some respectable figures. A combined fuel economy showing of over 60mpg is the standout feature and on a longer run you'll see the far side of 70mpg. Even around town, you'll need to be fairly merciless with the loud pedal to drop the consumption to a worrying level. Acceleration isn't scorching, but the top speed of 106mph means that motorway cruising won't have you pulling off at the first exit ramp to buy some ear defenders from Machine Mart.

The more powerful 109bhp version is far feistier. It produces 173lb/ft of torque between 1,900 and 2,750rpm. This enables the Getz to hit the 60mph barrier from standstill in 11.1s before running on to an eventual top speed of 112mph. Despite this handy performance, there's little fuel economy penalty. You should return figures that are nigh-on identical to those of the 87bhp unit give or take a few mpg.

"Even around town, you'll need to be fairly merciless with the loud pedal to drop the consumption below 44mpg"

There is a little diesel clatter on start up, the CRTD units not being the most silky of their ilk, but you'll appreciate their character and mid range flexibility which keeps gear changing to a minimum. That gear changing is done through a pleasant 5-speed manual transmission that should engender few complaints.

The CRTD engines are available in the GSI or CDX+ trim levels with the less-powerful one restricted to GSI trim and CDX+ customers getting the full 109bhp Monty. The mildly sporting GSI features air-conditioning, twin airbags, anti lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, power steering, electric front windows and a split fold rear seat. ISOFIX child seat mountings are also standard and a CD stereo is a welcome fitment. Go for the CDX+ and you'll gain alloy wheels of the 14" variety, side airbags, body colouring for the door handles and mirrors, remote central locking, a rear spoiler, a metal effect facia plus leather on the steering wheel and gearknob. It's actually a very well-equipped car.

The CRTD Hyundai Getz models are cars that will keep the Ford Fiesta, the Vauxhall Corsa and the Citroen C3 at the very top of their respective games. Hyundai has done its homework, realising that around 80% of the worldwide appetite for sophisticated superminis is accounted for by Europe. Derived from the Clix sports car concept, the chassis and suspension of the Getz was designed from the outset to provide a fun drive. Another advantage of that wheel-at-each-corner design is that internal space is optimised. The high roofline and tapering waistline of the car give a pleasantly airy feel.

Versatility is a big feature of the Getz. The rear seat is a case in point. As well as sliding to allow for more legroom or more boot space, the bench seat can recline and split in a conventional 60/40 fashion. Unlike many rivals who only offer a split rear backrest, the Getz offers additional utility by splitting the cushion too, allowing for all sorts of novel configurations. One of the downsides of such a system is often a compromise on safety, but Hyundai's designers have ensured that all three rear seats are fitted with proper three point belts. Up front the seat belts are fitted with pretensioners and are adjustable for height. Twin front and side airbags are a welcome feature and it's worth bearing in mind that there are plenty of cars that cost twice the Getz's asking price that don't offer such a provision. Electronic brakeforce distribution and anti-lock brakes are also standard on every model.

At 3800mm long, the Getz is simplicity itself to park and the 1660mm width makes it easy to slot through gaps in city traffic. Despite these compact dimensions, it's realistic transport for five, as long as the five in question aren't rugby league players. As well as being spacious, the Getz is also easy on your conscience. Around 89% of the car is said to be recyclable.

The Getz CRTD diesels make a lot of sense - so much so, in fact, that they should sell in substantially greater numbers than they do. Although Hyundai might score low marks for maximising their profits, they've certainly cottoned on to building very good small cars. If you haven't driven a Hyundai recently, try this one. We weren't surprised by it but you may be.

TOP 5 HYUNDAI DEALS

The results below show the top HYUNDAI deals on buyacar

Hyundai IX35 2.0 CRDi Premium 5dr Diesel Estate
Price £21,198 Read IX35 Reviews	Save £2,387
Hyundai Santa fe 2.2 CRDi Premium 5dr [7 Seats] Diesel Estate
Price £22,633 Read Santa fe Reviews	Save £4,097
Hyundai Santa fe 2.2 CRDi Premium 5dr [5 Seats] Diesel Estate
Price £21,823 Read Santa fe Reviews	Save £3,907
Hyundai Santa fe 2.2 CRDi Premium 5dr Auto [7 Seats] Diesel Estate
Price £24,030 Read Santa fe Reviews	Save £4,395
Hyundai Santa fe 2.2 CRDi Premium 5dr [Media Pack] [7 Seats] Diesel Estate
Price £23,524 Read Santa fe Reviews	Save £4,306
VIEW MORE DISCOUNT HYUNDAI DEALS