Hyundai Aura 2020-2023

Inside, the Hyundai Aura feels much like the Grand i10 NIOS as the two share almost every panel between each other. The dashboard is exactly what you get on the hatchback sister and features a single-panel design for the touchscreen infotainment unit and the semi-digital instrumentation.  The only difference arises out of the bronze-colour trim on the Aura instead of the silver-finished décor on the NIOS. 

The seat upholstery is light in colour, which means maintaining it will be pretty tough but the cabin is highly practical with several cubby holes located in every nook and corner of the interior. Meanwhile, the turbo variant gets matte-black trim instead of bronze and the chrome bits have made way for red inserts. The front seats miss out on adjustable headrests, but this feature is surprisingly on offer on the rear bench. Plus, the flat floor and the wide seat ensure that the rear can accommodate three adults on at least short journeys.

All variants include a cooled glove box in terms of interior features. The SX, SX+, and SX(O) trims include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the E and S variants have a 2-din audio system. Additionally, wireless charging and automatic climate control are included in the top SX+ and SX(O) models. The top-spec variant also gets cruise control for ease of driving.

Hyundai's entry-level sedan, the Aura, is currently only offered with a CNG powertrain, a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, and a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine. The base petrol model produces 81.8 bhp and 113 Nm and the CNG variant produces 68 bhp of power and 95.2 Nm of peak torque. 98.6 bhp and 175 Nm are available from the turbocharged petrol variant. The turbo-petrol powertrain is only offered with a 5-speed manual transmission, but the regular petrol motor can be purchased with either a 5-speed manual or an AMT.

The 1.2-litre motor offers a good torque spread and decent refinement level, while the NVH is quite well-controlled. That said, the engine gets a bit too vocal when you step on the gas with a heavy foot. The tractability offered by this engine is pretty impressive and you can potter around the town in second gear all day long. Even the in-gear acceleration is strong but overtaking takes a bit of planning. 

The 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine is the most exciting due to its minimal turbo-lag and strong grunt across the rev range. This version is even capable of sprinting from 0-100 kmph in less than 10 seconds, which makes it one of the quickest cars in its price segment. Of course, the CNG is for those looking for ultra-low running costs and the peace of mind that comes from having a factory-fitted CNG kit. 

The Hyundai Aura has some of the greatest handlings and rides quality in its class. The Aura has incredibly light steering that makes navigating the packed city streets and highway maneuvers simple. The mild steering even makes it easier to into small parking spaces, although happily, as the speed rises, the wheel does begin to weigh more. Only the most eager drivers will be left yearning for more communicative steering since there is even some feedback in the corners.

While the Hyundai Aura isn’t the perfect car for apex-hunting, it’s definitely among the most comfortable options in its class. It glides over most of the undulations and it’s only the really sharp speed-breakers and potholes that tend to upset the composure of this car. The front passengers stay comfortable over all sorts of surfaces while things get a bit bouncy at the rear. On large irregularities, there’s even some vertical movement experienced at the back. However, things never get very uncomfortable and as we said, the Aura is among the better options when it comes to the ride comfort on offer. 

The Hyundai Aura has not yet received a Global NCAP rating in terms of safety. According to Hyundai Motor India Limited, Advanced High Strength Steel makes up about 65% of the vehicle and it will safeguard the occupants in the case of a collision. Also, all variants come equipped with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard. Moreover, all versions except for base-level E trim get impact-sensing door unlock and speed-sensing door lock. Additionally, rear parking sensors are included in every variant, and a rear parking camera is included in the top-spec variant.

Another thoughtful safety element is the emergency brake signal, which illuminates to prevent rear-end collisions in the event that the Aura suddenly brakes. The rear view display, which allows the driver to see the back while moving forward, is another distinguishing feature.