Hyundai Aura: And the compact sedan segment in India is quite a competitive one where practicality, a premium feel, and value for money is what buyers are after. All of it in a sub-4-metre package.
The Hyundai Aura stays strong in this segment offering a mix of contemporary design, sophisticated interiors, economical engine options, and the Hyundai trust.
A sedan iteration of the Grand i10 Nios, the Aura competes against the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Honda Amaze and Tata Tigor.
It’s a compelling one for those who would like a feature-rich small sedan that feels premium but don’t want to deplete their bank account in the process.
Design and Exterior Appeal
Hyundai has done well to make the Aura look chic for a subcompact sedan. The front The front fascia gets the signature cascading grille design with LED DRLs embedded into it, that gives it a premium, slim and trim look.
Some other nice bits include the sculpted bonnet, chrome and projector headlamps that all add to the stance.
Meanwhile, the coupe-like roofline and sharp character lines contribute to a dynamic profile when viewed from the side.
At the back, the wrap-around tail-lamps and the chrome garnish over the boot lid offer it a proportionate, mildly sporty look. It’s a relatively modern- and well-proportioned-looking compact sedan.
Interior and Features
Climb inside the Aura, and you are greeted by a two-tone dashboard, featuring textured surfaces and metallic trim that conspire to make the cabin feel upscale.
The cabin is highly packaged, with sensible stowage areas as well as comfortable seating and space.
The highest trim levels are nicely equipped with:
8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto infotainment system
Wireless phone charger
Rear AC vents
Driver rear-view monitor
Cruise control
Automatic climate control
Steering and speedo are adjustable, though.
Rear seat comfort is adequate, with ample legroom and headroom for average-size adults.
That 402-litre boot is also a sizeable offering for the segment, so this is a great choice for family buyers.
Performance and Engines
The Aura comes in several engine options to cater to buyers’ usage and budgets:
1.2-litre Petrol (83 PS) – Peppy and efficient motor; comes mated to a 5-speed manual and an AMT
1.2-liter CNG version (69 PS) – Perfect for in-city driving with the lowest running cost
1.0-litre Turbo Petrol PO – Available earlier for enthusist now discontinued on newer POs
1.2-litre diesel (75 PS) – Isn’t on sale now (due to emission norms), but was efficient.
The petrol motor is good enough for daily city driving and also does its job on the highways.
The AMT has a fair shift quality, but it fares better in relaxed driving!
Mileage is one of Aura’s strong points as the real world numbers hover above 18 – 20 km/l in petrol, while on CNG go even higher.
Safety and Build
Hyundai offers the Aura with key safety features:
2 airbags (Special: Available as optional equipment) Dual airbags (4 airbags in higher trims)
ABS with EBD
Parking sensors reverse camera at the back
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Seatbelt reminders
Steel bodyHigh strength holding steel body structure
Although that car hasn’t been crash-tested by Global NCAP, Hyundai has said it adheres to all current Indian safety norms.
Pros of Hyundai Aura
Stylish and high-quality interior details
CNG available available in various engines
Excellent fuel efficiency
Ample boot for family use
Feature-rich top variants
Easy city driving experience
Robust service channel of Hyundai
Cons of Hyundai Aura
No diesel or turbo-petrol currently in range
Rear seat more ideal for two adults, not so much for three
AMT not as reactive as regular autobox
Lacks SUV-like road presence
Crash test ratings have not been made public
Hyundai Aura: Final Verdict
The Hyundai Aura is a balanced compact sedan that checks most boxes for the urban Indian family.
It comes with smart design, the latest tech, a useful amount of cabin space and great fuel economy.
Whether you need a daily commuter car or a chauffeur-driven option/kid-car with savings from CNG, the Aura becomes tremendous value.
If it’s a compact sedan under ₹10 lakh you’re considering, the Aura deserves a long, hard look – more so, if you’re the type who’d prefer sedan comfort and hatchback practicality.