Popular Hyundai Bus goes fancy
Hyundai announced this week that its popular H-1 Bus and its two derivatives, the H-1 Panel Van and H-1 Multicab, have undergone a mid-cycle make-over, adding a number of features to enhance functionality and to make it even more popular.
A new front grille and bumper design, and new 16-inch alloy wheels are the new exterior features of the H-1 range, while a new, redesigned centre fascia and instrument cluster enhances the interior of the range. The Panel Van, however, will retain the standard steel wheel rims.
Several new convenience and safety features have also been added to the top-of-the-range H-1 2.5 Turbodiesel 9-seater bus. These are a folding key, bluetooth connectivity for the sound system with multifunction controls on the steering wheel; cruise control with controls on the steering wheel; full automatic air conditioner with climate control; glove box cooling; a side airbag; leather steering wheel and gear knob covers; an electric folding mirror; an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) for the turbodiesel derivative; and am protection and autodown function for the driver side window.
“The H-1 has really been given quite an extension of its lifespan with the exterior enhancements and the addition of features on the inside. It is a good-looking vehicle that has not really aged since its launch 6 years ago, and it now has a few extra years that it can compete head on with the opposition,” said Stanley Anderson, marketing director of Hyundai Automotive South Africa.
With more than 10943 H-1’s sold since its southern African launch in 2009, the 9-seater bus has dominated its local market segment for a considerable time. It is available with a choice between two engines: a 2359 cc petrol engine, delivering its 126 kW maximum power and 224 Nm maximum torque through a 5-speed manual gearbox to the the rear wheels; and a 2497 cc turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 125 kW maximum power and 441 Nm maximum torque.
The Panelvan retails for around N$450,000 while the 9-seater turbodiesel bus goes for around N$590,000.
