Hyundai Aura E

Hey car enthusiasts and smart buyers! Are you on the hunt for a new compact sedan that ticks all the right boxes without emptying your wallet? When buying a new car in India, we all juggle a few key considerations: what's my budget? Is it safe for my family? How much will monthly maintenance cost? Does it come with the latest features? And crucially, how reliable is the company's service network? These are important questions, and today, we're going to dive deep into a car that aims to answer many of them: the new Hyundai Aura E.

The Hyundai Aura has carved a niche for itself in the highly competitive compact sedan segment. With the 'E' variant, Hyundai offers an entry point that promises efficiency, essential features, and the peace of mind that comes with owning a Hyundai. Let's break it down to see if the Aura E is the perfect fit for your garage.

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Hyundai Aura E is a tried and tested unit.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa Petrol
• Displacement: 1197 cc
• Max Power: 83 PS (at 6000 rpm)
• Max Torque: 113.8 Nm (at 4000 rpm)
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual
• Mileage (ARAI): Approximately 20-21 kmpl, making it a strong contender for fuel efficiency.

Design Overview

Even as the base model, the Hyundai Aura E maintains a smart and contemporary appeal.

Exterior Design

The Aura E carries the same elegant yet sporty lines as its higher variants, offering a modern aesthetic on Indian roads. It looks proportionate and has a pleasant road presence for a compact sedan.

• Front: Features Hyundai's signature cascading grille, giving it a distinctive face. While the E variant might miss out on LED DRLs, the overall design remains appealing.
• Side Profile: A flowing design with prominent character lines that add a sense of movement.
• Rear: Stylish C-shaped LED tail lamps (though perhaps not full LED in the E variant) and a sculpted boot lid provide a premium touch.

Interior Design

Step inside the Hyundai Aura E, and you'll find a functional and comfortable cabin.

• Dashboard: A clean and ergonomic layout, with controls easily accessible to the driver. The dual-tone theme (typically black and beige or grey) enhances the feeling of space.
• Seating: Fabric upholstery is standard, offering decent comfort for city commutes and highway runs. The front seats are supportive, and while the rear isn't massive, it's adequate for two adults and a child.
• Build Quality: Typical Hyundai quality, with good fit and finish for its segment.

Key Features

While the 'E' variant is the base, it still offers essential features for a comfortable driving experience. Remember, premium features like a large infotainment screen or automatic climate control are available in higher variants of the Aura.

• Manual Air Conditioner with Heater
• Front Power Windows
• Dual-tone interior theme
• Front & Rear Cabin Lamps
• Power Steering
• Adjustable Front Headrests
• USB Charging Port (front)
• Driver & Passenger Airbags
• ABS with EBD

Note: Features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charger, automatic climate control, cruise control, rear AC vents, and a rear parking camera are available in higher variants of the Hyundai Aura. The Aura does not offer a sunroof or a 360-degree camera in any of its variants.

What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Aura E?

The Hyundai Aura E offers a practical ground clearance, suitable for Indian road conditions.

• Ground Clearance: Approximately 165 mm

What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Aura E?

For a compact sedan, the Hyundai Aura E provides generous boot space.

• Boot Space: 402 Litres

What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Aura E?

Being a sub-4-meter compact sedan, the Hyundai Aura E is designed for urban maneuverability.

• Length: 3995 mm
• Width: 1680 mm
• Height: 1520 mm
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

The Hyundai Aura E comes exclusively with the 1.2L Kappa Petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Higher variants of the Aura also offer an AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) option for added convenience in city traffic.

Safety Features

Hyundai has prioritised safety even in the base 'E' variant of the Aura.

• Dual Front Airbags (Driver & Passenger)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Seat Belt Reminder (Driver & Passenger)
• High Speed Alert System
• Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock
• Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock

Higher variants of the Aura include additional safety features like 4 or 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM).

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is a significant concern for Indian car buyers. Here's what we know about the Hyundai Aura's NCAP rating:

Rivals of Hyundai Aura E

The Hyundai Aura E competes in a hotly contested segment in India. Its primary rivals include:

• Maruti Suzuki Dzire: The segment leader, known for its strong mileage and wide service network.
• Tata Tigor: Offers a strong focus on safety and a comfortable ride.
• Honda Amaze: Known for its refined engine and spacious cabin.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

So, should the Hyundai Aura E be your next car? Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

• Smooth & Refined Engine: The 1.2L Kappa petrol engine is known for its refinement and quiet operation, especially at city speeds.
• Good Fuel Efficiency: Excellent mileage figures make it an economical choice for daily commutes.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension setup is well-tuned for Indian roads, offering a pliant and comfortable ride over bumps.
• Spacious Boot: A generous 402-liter boot space is a big plus for family trips and luggage.
• Hyundai's Service Network: Extensive and reliable after-sales service across India provides peace of mind.
• Modern Design: Even the base variant boasts a stylish and contemporary look, inside and out.

Cons:

• Basic Feature List: As the 'E' variant, it lacks many comfort and convenience features found in higher trims and some rivals' base models.
• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, taller passengers might find rear knee room a bit tight on longer journeys.
• Highway Performance: While refined, the 1.2L engine might feel a bit underpowered for spirited highway overtaking, especially when fully loaded.
• NVH at High Speeds: Some road and engine noise can filter into the cabin at higher speeds.
• NCAP Rating: The previous 2-star Global NCAP rating might be a concern for some, despite improved safety features in current models.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Aura E presents itself as a compelling option for budget-conscious Indian car buyers looking for a dependable, fuel-efficient, and stylish compact sedan. It offers the core Hyundai experience – a refined engine, comfortable ride, and reliable service – at an accessible price point. While the 'E' variant is basic on features, it covers all the essentials and serves as a solid foundation for those who prioritise value and practicality.

If you're upgrading from a hatchback or looking for a second car for the family, and your budget is a key driver, the Aura E deserves a close look. For those who desire more bells and whistles, the higher variants of the Aura offer a comprehensive package. Our advice? Head to your nearest Hyundai dealership, take the Aura for a test drive, and see how it feels. Happy car buying!