Hyundai Xcent 1.2 VTVT S AT

Xcent 1.2 VTVT S AT Review

The Hyundai Xcent is one of the most popular compact sedans in India. However, if you are looking to get one with an automatic transmission, the Xcent VTVT S AT is the only way to go. Priced at Rs 7.14 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi, as of 8 May, 2017), the S AT is the mid-level model in the variant range.

Compared to the equivalent manual variant, the automatic commands a premium of around Rs 88,000.

The Xcent received its latest update in 2017 and the refresh has also changed the feature list a little. On the outside, apart from smoked headlamps and a chrome radiator grille, the car also gets daytime-running LED lights. It also features full-wheel caps, while the bumpers, wing mirrors and door handles are all body-coloured. Also, the wing mirrors get integrated turn indicators.

The safety kit includes dual front airbags, front fog lamps, a rear defogger and rear parking sensors too. Unfortunately, the Xcent AT cannot be had with ABS, since that is only available on the SX and SX (O) grades.

Inside, a 2-tone beige-black interior comes as standard, but the S grade adds bits like metal finish door handles, a front passenger seatback pocket, and chrome touches on the gear and handbrake levers. Yes, you do get a double-din stereo for entertainment, and it supports Bluetooth/AUX/USB connectivity options. The car also gets steering-mounted audio controls. Exclusive to the automatic variant is a smartphone holder atop the dashboard. This is particularly useful if you use your phone as a navigation device.

The feature list goes on to include rear AC vents, electrically folding wing mirrors, tilt steering and a vanity mirror for the front passenger.

While the Xcent facelift did get an uprated diesel engine, the petrol motor remains the same as before. Powering the car is a 1.2-litre petrol engine that makes 83PS of power and 114Nm of torque. The motor comes paired with a 4-speed automatic gearbox and Hyundai claims the car can manage a fuel efficiency of 17.36kmpl, which is nearly 3kmpl less than its manual counterpart.

Rivals to the Xcent petrol AT include the Ford Aspire, Maruti Dzire and Honda Amaze.