Design
Design is not a strong point of most Hyundai cars and Verna is no different. The Hyundai Verna is essentially inspired by the concept of ‘large on the inside and compact outside’. The design though not anything to write home about, is simple. Clean exterior lines with a well- proportioned body. Hyundai has worked hard to give Verna the next generation look. A balanced front end, the restrained use of bright metal on the radiator grill almost blending into the hood and bumper configuration, gives it a neat appearance.
With the moderately flared wheel arches, 16” alloy wheel option, its confident stance, pronounced shoulder lines and electrically operated aerodynamic exterior mirrors, the Verna gives an overall impression of a strong but sporty vehicle. No matter where you go, the Verna, will be an eye-catcher and a stare-grabber par excellence. You just can’t miss it on the roads.
The interiors also sport a contemporary look. Compared to other Hyundai vehicles, the Verna sees substantial improvement in the quality department. The lines have better finish and details have been worked out well. The dashboard that is essentially Korean in design gives you a feel of quality and is adequately loaded with features.
Comfort
Comfort level of the Verna is quite impressive. A keyless entry, clever use storage space right under the steering wheel, a tilt power steering that keeps you firmly in control, a new three-way nozzle for better wash and wipe and a fully automatic temperature control system makes you feel comfortable inside. The car has sufficient power to support the AC and there is no drag on switching on the AC.
The ride is very smooth and handling is comparable to cars in its class. A much-improved suspension over the Accent and good 65/70 profile tyres has gone a long way to make this car comfortable on Indian roads. The driving position is comfortable and is augmented by height adjustment feature of the driving seat. The inner space and legroom though comfortable is much less than that of Honda City, which are miles ahead in this department.
Engine, Transmission and Performance
Hyundai has introduced two all-new four-cylinder engines, 1600cc CVVT petrol and a 1500cc CRDi diesel. The CWT engine is a powerful performer, saving fuel at low rpm and extremely responsive at high rpm. It gives the likes of Honda City, Fiesta and Aveo a good run for their money. But the engine to watch out is the CRDi. Little lacking on the initial power, it beats the competition hollow once it takes off at higher rpm with 108 bhp. There’s no stopping the engine once it has overcome the initial hitch. Another unique feature of this engine is its extremely low Noise-Vibration-Harshness (NVH) ratio. Some people go to the extent of saying the diesel version of Verna is quieter than petrol version. Quiet diesel engine? Well, here is one.
Safety
Safety features including Dual - Member side impact beams, Collapsible steering column, Key less entry with theft deterrent system, Impact sensing for auto door unlocking, Rear-door child lock, Day and night mirrors, Anti-lock Braking system (ABS) are the usual safety features you would expect in a mid-size car.
Sure-footed handling and anti-lock brakes help to make driving Verna an easy job and hence safer. Hyundai has provided bigger front disc and booster sizes for safer, faster braking. This enhances stopping power of the vehicle. Air bags are not available even as an option and are sorely missed.