Hyundai Eon : When the Eon was introduced in the Indian market by Hyundai, it was touted to be a sleek, frugal and competitively priced – challenge to the Maruti Alto and Tata Nano. Over time, the Eon became popular due to its contemporary exterior, good features and easy driving dynamics.
Granted, the model in question ended up being discontinued in 2019, but thanks to its portability and easy to live with character the hatchback is still a popular option in the used car market.
The Eon represented Hyundai’s answer to the rising preference for a small car that did not look or feel too basic or outdated.
It was very practical and affordable for cost-conscious consumers, the students and the young professional people, as first time car owners who have small families.
Hyundai Eon Stylish Yet Practical Design
Design – One of Eon’s highlights has also been its design. Even at launch, the Eon had a much more upmarket appearance than its rivals.
The smooth, flowing lines of the car, implemented in the fluidic design language of Hyundai, included a bold front grille, curvy profile, swept-back headlamps and sculpted sides that made it look more expensive than it was.
The back of the car was just as well turned out, too, with wraparound tail-lamps and a high-mounted stop lamp. It still doesn’t look dated even today when you park it next to contemporary hatchbacks.
Its tidy dimensions make it ideal for narrow city streets and jam-packed parking lots.
Interiors That Are Plain and Good Enough
Hyundai Eon had an interior that appeared more upmarket in comparison to it’s competitors. Not to mention ergonomically placed controls, two-tone interior and a nicely integrated centre console, all of which conspired to put the car in a good light.
Interior space Despite its small footprint, Hyundai did an excellent job of maximizing interior space.
Seats offered comfortable support on short city drives, but long road trips might leave taller occupants feeling pinched, particularly anyone stuck sitting in the back.
With a boot space of approximately 215 litres it was as useable and as class leading as anything else in its class at the time.
Top-spec variants would even get bits like electric-adjusted front windows, a basic audio system with USB and AUX connectivity and internally adjustable mirrors which were unheard of in this price segment.
Engine and Performance
It had two gasoline-operated engines, an 814cc three-cylinder and a 1.0L Kappa 1.0-litre petrol engine. The new smaller engine was economical for u.se in cities and the 1.0L was sporty and came with smoother power generation.
The 5-speed manual transmission was slick and effortless to use, making it very commuter-friendly. The Eon, while no speedster, worked admirably in city traffic, short commutes and even a few highway runs. Ride quality was fine, for well for its size, with the suspension doing a good job of taking up most bumps.
Fuel Economy and Upkeep
Among Eon’s selling points was mileage. The 0.8L engine was able to do about 21km/l in the most optimum condition, one of the most fuel-efficient hatchback of its time.
And at least the 1.0 was pretty economical without hampering driveability too much.
Its extensive service chain and low maintenance costs sweetened the deal there. Spare parts are easily found, and it doesn’t cost a fortune in general maintenance.
Pros:
Design wants to be pretty even then, and is still pretty now
Great fuel economy with the 0.8L engine
Its small size and delicate colors makes it perfect for city use
Strong after-sales support by Hyundai
Low maintenance and high value for money
Cons:
Not a lot of Forte power and even less so with the small engine.
Rear seat room is a bit tight for three adults
Diesel and automatic not available
Not ideal for highway driving that is common
Are base models that didn’t have safety aids, such as ABS or airbags
Hyundai Eon Final Verdict
Production of the Hyundai Eon has now been discontinued, but its impact is likely to be felt even in the future, as a smart, stylish and efficient city car. Whether you are looking at it as your first car or as a budget friendly second car for city duties, the Eon may not be your best choice in the new car market.
Edged out by a combination of design, price and ease of ownership, the Eon continues to be one of Hyundai’s more successful small cars to date.