February 4th, 2010 
Jeremy Hyundai Getz
Economy hatchbacks occupy a tight niche where only a few thousand dollars separate budget leaders like the Getz from the more costly Mazda2 and Ford Fiestas. Will the Hyundai model appeal to you? It depends who you’re buying it for.
The 2009 Getz looks pretty much like last year’s model. There are more paint colors to choose from, and a new grille. If you’ve seen them on the road, then you can probably visualize what the latest model looks like.
What’s different this year is that all models come with Bluetooth connectivity, expanded audio systems for the SX trim, and a variety of options on the interior and to upgrade the safety.
When it comes to performance, the Getz gets good marks when equipped with a manual transmission. The 1.6 litre four powering the SX model reaches 78kW at 5,800 RPM, which translates to effective power because of the properly sorted gear ratios.
When you enter a turn, or attempt to park, the Getz loses some of its lustre. There is a weight to the steering that can make cornering sluggish, and that feeling is still there if you go up steep hills.
The SX, though, comes with electronic stability control standard, as well as two front airbags. If you include the Protectz option pack, side impact airbags are installed in addition to traction control and anti-lock brakes. Those additions will add $1290 to the model, which comes in at $15,340 for a three-door with manual transmission, and up to $18,340 for a five-door hatch with an automatic.
At the same time, drivers will find decent fuel economy at 6.2l/100km with the SX. For the environmentally conscious, there is 148g/100km.
Where the Getz really shines is as a people mover for the younger crowd. The back seats are comfortable, and conversations easy to hold with the quiet cabin. The driver can control the MP3/WMA/CD from controls on the steering wheel, and you can connect USB devices or an iPod.
The best fit for the Getz SX is someone looking to buy a new hatch that gets their friends around town without lightening the wallet too much. At the lowest price point in the market, it’s worth a look compared to its competitors.
Specifications (SX Model):
Engine: 1.6-litre DOHC four-cylinder (16-valve)
Power: 78kW @ 5800rpm
Torque: 144Nm @ 3200rpm
Induction: Multi-point
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Driven Wheels: Front
Brakes: Discs with ABS, EBA & EBD
Top Speed: N/A
CO2 Emissions: 148g/100km
Fuel Consumption: 6.2L/100km claimed
Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 litres
Fuel Type: 91RON petrol
ANCAP Rating: Four-star
Airbags: Dual front & side
Safety: ESC with Traction Control
Spare Wheel: Full size steel
Suspension: Strut(F)/Torsion beam(R)
Tow Capacity: TBC
Turning Circle: 10.0 metres
Warranty: 5 year/Unlimited Kilometre
Weight: 1100kg (Tare)
Wheels 14-inch steel
Posted in
Hi my name is Harry – I have a Getz – I’m a P Plater. This is also my first car. I would say its a good first car for young drivers and the price is affordable for many too. Not the most powerful vehicle when compared to some of my friends’ v6 Commodores and utes, but it gets me from A to B. It is a little less responsive when using the aircon but I suppose thats to be expected right? I’d recommend the Hyundai Getz as a good starting car for young drivers – probably more so for girls because of the compact style, but also for some boys like me
I love my Getz! I am an 18 year old girl and I bought my Getz from the John Hughes Dealership in WA – got a really good price and its reallllly fuel efficient. Perfect for zipping around the suburbs and to and from Uni. Its also small so it makes parking much easier for me!
I had a Getz – good compact car to get around the city in. I no longer drive the Getz, I now have a Hyundai accent as I wrote the Getz off. I would say the Accent is equal to the Getz in terms of fuel efficiency and the ‘zippy’ driving experience around the suburbs. These are both good first cars for young drivers