Hyundai Aura: The Hyundai Aura represents the Korean automaker’s thoughtful evolution in the compact sedan segment, succeeding the popular Xcent while establishing its own distinct identity.

Launched in India in January 2020, the Aura embodies Hyundai’s contemporary design philosophy and technological advancement in a package that appeals to both urban commuters and small families.

As a sub-4-meter sedan competing in one of India’s most value-conscious segments, the Aura balances practicality, efficiency, and modern features while maintaining competitive pricing.

Hyundai Aura: Design and Exterior

The Hyundai Aura’s exterior design makes a bold statement with its “Sensuous Sportiness” design language.

The front fascia features a distinctive cascading grille flanked by swept-back projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights that create a sharp, contemporary appearance.

The bumper incorporates boomerang-shaped fog lamp housings that add character to the vehicle’s face.

From the side profile, the Aura displays well-proportioned dimensions with a coupe-like silhouette. The sloping roofline transitions smoothly into the stubby boot, creating a sense of motion even when stationary.

The character lines running along the sides add visual interest and reduce the perception of bulk.

The R15 diamond-cut alloy wheels on higher variants enhance the premium appeal, while the standard 14-inch wheels on entry-level trims maintain a balanced look.

At the rear, the Z-shaped LED tail lamps connected by a chrome strip create a distinctive signature, especially noticeable at night.

The bumper features reflectors and a neat design that completes the visual package without appearing overly complex.

Despite the constraints of the sub-4-meter tax bracket, Hyundai’s designers have created a cohesive design that avoids the awkward proportions sometimes seen in this segment.

The Aura measures 3,995 mm in length, 1,680 mm in width, and 1,520 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,450 mm.

These dimensions ensure adequate interior space while maintaining the compact footprint necessary for urban maneuverability.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Aura reveals an interior that punches above its weight class in terms of design and material quality.

The dual-tone beige and black theme creates an airy, spacious ambiance, while the thoughtfully designed dashboard incorporates a mix of textures and surfaces that elevate the visual appeal.

The centerpiece of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that seamlessly integrates with the instrument cluster housing.

The three-spoke steering wheel features well-placed controls for audio, phone, and cruise functions, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road.

Seating comfort is impressive for a vehicle in this segment. The front seats offer good thigh support and side bolstering, while the driver’s seat height adjustment allows for an optimal driving position.

The rear bench features a center armrest with cup holders and provides adequate legroom for adult passengers, though taller individuals might find headroom slightly restrictive due to the sloping roofline.

Hyundai has incorporated several thoughtful touches that enhance everyday usability, including multiple storage spaces throughout the cabin, rear AC vents, and USB charging ports for both front and rear passengers.

The boot capacity of 402 liters is generous for the segment, easily accommodating multiple suitcases or the weekly grocery haul.

Technology and Features

The Hyundai Aura stands out in its segment with its comprehensive feature list. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling seamless smartphone integration.

The system also incorporates voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation.

The semi-digital instrument cluster includes a 5.3-inch MID (Multi-Information Display) that provides essential driving information, including fuel economy data, distance-to-empty, and driving modes where applicable.

Additional technology features include:

• Automatic climate control

• Wireless phone charger

• Arkamys premium sound system

• Rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines

• Keyless entry with push-button start

• Cruise control

• Auto-folding outside mirrors

Higher variants also offer Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car technology with over 33 features, including remote engine start/stop, vehicle status notifications, geofencing, and SOS emergency assistance.

Performance and Powertrain

The Aura offers multiple powertrain options to cater to different customer preferences:

Engine Type	1.2L Kappa Petrol	1.2L Ecotorq Diesel	1.0L Turbo GDi Petrol
Displacement	1197 cc	1186 cc	998 cc
Power Output	83 PS @ 6000 rpm	75 PS @ 4000 rpm	100 PS @ 6000 rpm
Torque	114 Nm @ 4000 rpm	190 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm	172 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm
Transmission	5MT / AMT	5MT / AMT	5MT only
Fuel Efficiency (claimed)	20.5 km/l (MT) / 20.1 km/l (AMT)	25.4 km/l (MT) / 25.1 km/l (AMT)	20.0 km/l
CNG Option	Available (68 PS)	Not available	Not available

 

The naturally aspirated 1.2-liter petrol engine serves as the mainstay of the range, offering a balanced mix of performance and efficiency suitable for everyday driving conditions.

The engine responds well in urban environments, with smooth power delivery and reasonable refinement levels.

For those prioritizing fuel efficiency and long-distance cruising, the 1.2-liter diesel engine provides excellent torque at low revs, making it ideal for highway driving.

The substantial torque also helps when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and luggage.

The 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, available exclusively in the sportier Aura Turbo variant, delivers engaging performance with minimal turbo lag and a satisfying surge of acceleration in the mid-range.

This variant caters to enthusiasts looking for a more spirited driving experience without sacrificing practicality.

Both the 5-speed manual and AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) options offer distinct advantages.

The manual provides better control and engagement for driving enthusiasts, while the AMT delivers convenience in stop-and-go traffic conditions despite some inherent jerkiness during gear changes that is characteristic of this transmission type.

The CNG variant of the 1.2-liter petrol engine offers exceptional running costs for budget-conscious buyers, though it comes with a slight compromise in performance and boot space due to the cylinder installation.

Ride and Handling

The Hyundai Aura is built on the same platform as the Grand i10 Nios, which provides a good foundation for balanced ride and handling characteristics.

The suspension setup consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear, tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling.

On urban roads, the Aura absorbs bumps and imperfections effectively, providing a comfortable ride for all occupants.

The suspension offers enough compliance to handle larger obstacles like speed breakers without unsettling the cabin, though sharp impacts can sometimes filter through.

Highway stability is reassuring, with the Aura maintaining its composure at cruising speeds. Crosswinds can affect the vehicle due to its light weight, but not to a concerning degree.

The electronic power steering is calibrated for ease of use in city conditions, offering light effort at parking speeds and weighing up slightly as velocity increases.

While not designed for enthusiastic cornering, the Aura handles predictably with controlled body roll.

The grip levels from the standard tires are adequate for normal driving conditions, though keen drivers might prefer upgrading to better rubber for enhanced confidence during spirited driving.

The braking system combines disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, providing sufficient stopping power for everyday use.

The brake pedal offers progressive feel, making it easy to modulate in various traffic conditions.

Safety

Hyundai has equipped the Aura with a comprehensive safety package that includes:

• Dual front airbags (standard across all variants)

• ABS with EBD

• ISOFIX child seat anchors

• Rear parking sensors

• Impact-sensing door unlock

• Speed-sensing auto door lock

• Seat belt reminder for driver and front passenger

• Speed alert system

Higher variants add features like a rear parking camera with guidelines and projector fog lamps for enhanced visibility in adverse conditions.

The Aura’s body structure incorporates high-strength steel in critical areas to enhance crash protection while optimizing weight. The vehicle complies with India’s latest safety regulations, including pedestrian protection norms.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a significant consideration for compact sedan buyers, and the Aura delivers competitive numbers across its powertrain options:

• 1.2L Petrol: 20.5 km/l (MT) / 20.1 km/l (AMT) (claimed)

• 1.2L Diesel: 25.4 km/l (MT) / 25.1 km/l (AMT) (claimed)

• 1.0L Turbo Petrol: 20.0 km/l (claimed)

• 1.2L Petrol CNG: 28.4 km/kg (claimed)

Real-world efficiency typically ranges between 15-17 km/l for the petrol variants in mixed driving conditions, while the diesel version can deliver 20-22 km/l, making it an economical choice for high-mileage users. The CNG variant offers excellent running costs, especially important given the rising fuel prices.

Key Highlights of Hyundai Aura

1. Distinctive Design: Coupe-like silhouette with Z-shaped LED tail lamps and projector headlamps

2. Multiple Powertrain Options: Choices include naturally aspirated petrol, turbocharged petrol, diesel, and CNG

3. Feature-Rich Cabin: 8-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity and premium sound system

4. Connected Car Technology: BlueLink offers remote vehicle control and safety features

5. Spacious Interior: Generous legroom and 402-liter boot capacity

6. Fuel Efficiency: Competitive mileage across all powertrain options

7. Comprehensive Warranty: 3-year/100,000 km standard coverage with optional extensions

8. Safety Features: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX anchors as standard

Variants and Pricing

The Hyundai Aura is available in multiple trim levels to cater to different budget requirements and feature preferences:

1. E: The entry-level variant offers essential features including dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and power windows.

2. S: This mid-tier option adds the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, rear AC vents, and steering-mounted controls.

3. SX: The premium variant includes projector headlamps, LED DRLs, 15-inch alloy wheels, and automatic climate control.

4. SX+: The top-end variant offers BlueLink connected car features, wireless phone charger, and cruise control.

Pricing ranges from approximately ₹6.10 lakh for the base E petrol variant to ₹8.87 lakh for the top-spec SX+ diesel AMT (ex-showroom, Delhi). The CNG variants command a premium of around ₹75,000 over their petrol counterparts.

Ownership Experience

Hyundai’s reputation for reliability and after-sales service enhances the Aura ownership experience.

The company’s network includes over 1,300 service centers across India, ensuring convenient maintenance regardless of location.

The standard warranty coverage of 3 years/100,000 kilometers can be extended to up to 7 years/125,000 kilometers through Hyundai’s Shield of Trust program.

Service intervals are recommended at every 10,000 kilometers or one year, whichever comes first.

The estimated maintenance cost for the Aura averages ₹4,000-6,000 annually for the petrol variants and slightly higher for the diesel models, which is competitive within its segment. The CNG variant requires more frequent servicing but offers significantly lower running costs.

Additional ownership benefits include:

• 24/7 roadside assistance

• Service reminders and online booking

• Transparent service costs through digital service records

• Hyundai Mobility Membership program with partner benefits

Competition Analysis

The Hyundai Aura competes in the crowded compact sedan segment against several established rivals:

• Maruti Suzuki Dzire: Offers better fuel efficiency and a more extensive service network but fewer premium features

• Honda Amaze: Provides better driving dynamics and build quality at a higher price point

• Ford Aspire: Delivers superior ride and handling with punchy engines but lacks the feature set of the Aura

• Tata Tigor: Offers distinctive styling and good value but falls short in terms of powertrain refinement

The Aura’s unique selling proposition lies in its combination of feature-rich cabin, multiple powertrain options, and Hyundai’s reputation for quality and service.

The availability of a factory-fitted CNG option also appeals to budget-conscious buyers looking for low running costs.

Hyundai Aura: 

The Hyundai Aura successfully balances practicality with premium features in a package that represents good value in the compact sedan segment.

Its distinctive styling, comfortable interior, comprehensive feature list, and diverse powertrain options make it a versatile choice capable of meeting various customer requirements.

While it may not excel in any single area compared to specialized competitors, the Aura’s strength lies in its well-rounded nature.

For buyers seeking a reliable, feature-rich compact sedan with good after-sales support and reasonable running costs, the Aura presents a compelling proposition.

As Hyundai continues to refine and update this model with the latest technology and features, the Aura is likely to maintain its position as a significant player in India’s competitive compact sedan market for years to come.

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