With the recent discontinuation of Nissan’s NP200 and no other small half ton bakkies available in South Africa, Hyundai looks to take advantage of that gap in the market with their Cargo offering.
The idea to launch the compact and manoeuvrable Grand i10 Cargo in 2019 as a light commercial vehicle with a secure and large, practical boot has proven to be a winner. This success laid the foundation for the Venue Cargo, which was launched last year.
The Cargo models offer numerous inherent benefits including a spacious and secure load area as well as exceptional fuel-efficiency and low running costs, which make these models attractive to businesses looking for a compact commercial vehicle.
Hyundai’s Cargo models conform to all the legal requirements such as homologation at the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, which means that they are registered as light commercial vehicles, allowing business owners or entrepreneurs to claim the VAT back after the purchase of the car.
The Grand i10 Cargo is aimed at small business owners and entrepreneurs, such as delivery drivers and couriers, as well as security firms. Both models are also well suited for food delivery, pet transport and cleaning services.
The local changes carried out to transform the Grand i10 hatchback and Venue into Cargo models include the removal of the rear seats, which are then replaced by a solid and level metal floor that stretches through the original luggage compartment. The addition of a rigid metal grid divider between the luggage area and the driver and passenger in the front ensure the safe and secure transportation of goods or equipment.
Strong metal grids have also been added to the inside of the rear windows to secure goods and parcels. Mounting hooks and a cargo net in the luggage area prevent parcels from moving around.
When compared to a model like the Nissan NP200, Hyundai believe that customers can save up to 50% on service and maintenance costs. For example, the service and maintenance costs of the Grand i10 Cargo amount to 31 cents per kilometre over 180 000km. In addition up to 30% can be saved on the fuel bill.
Frugal, well performing engines
The Grand i10 Premium Cargo is equipped with a three-cylinder 998cc petrol engine that delivers 48kW and 94Nm through a five-speed manual transmission. An average fuel consumption of 5,5 litres per 100km is another attractive feature.
The Venue 1.2 Premium Cargo is powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 61kW and 115Nm and is also linked to a five-speed manual gearbox and driven through the front wheels. Fuel consumption of 6,5 litres per 100km on the combined cycle contributes to the Cargo’s low running cost
The Venue Cargo brings a more rugged SUV design, with higher ground clearance, to the LCV range, along with a more powerful engine. Its cabin is more and the 1,3 cubic metre load area offers a higher payload capacity for heavier loads, while the larger hatchback opening ensures ease of load access. The Venue Cargo can also tow a trailer with a 1,1-ton permissible braked towing mass.
Passenger vehicle comforts
Despite their light commercial credentials the Cargo models feature all of the same creature comforts of the regular models, including a manual air-conditioner, electrically adjustable side mirrors, electrically operated windows for the driver and passenger, remote central locking and an infotainment system with eight-inch display audio touchscreen, which offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Also present are USB cell phone charging ports, a rearview park-assist camera and Bluetooth hands-free phone operation.
Safety features include three-point safety belts with pretensioners as well as ABS and airbags for the driver and front passenger.
Model range and pricing
Pricing includes a seven-year/200 000km warranty and seven-year/150 000km roadside assistance. The Grand i10 Cargo is sold with a one-year/15 000km service plan and the Venue Cargo is sold with a three-year/45 000km service plan.
Hyundai Grand i10 Premium Cargo manual R249 500 (VAT inclusive)
Hyundai Grand i10 Premium Cargo automatic R289 500 (VAT inclusive)
Hyundai Venue 1.2 Premium Cargo manual R321 500 (VAT inclusive)
