The Hyundai Solaris II Sedan 1.4 MPI (100 hp) Automatic, launched in 2017, represents a significant iteration of Hyundai’s compact sedan designed primarily for the Russian and CIS markets. Positioned as a mainstream, affordable option, this variant occupied a crucial mid-range slot within the Solaris II lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and ease of use through its automatic transmission. The Solaris II, built on the RB platform, aimed to provide a modern, reliable, and value-oriented vehicle to a segment increasingly demanding both practicality and comfort. This specific configuration, pairing the 1.4-liter engine with a six-speed automatic, was intended to appeal to buyers prioritizing convenience over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Solaris |
| Generation | Solaris II Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 MPI (100 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 4000 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1182 kg (2605.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 418 kg (921.53 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4405 mm (173.43 in.) |
| Width | 1729 mm (68.07 in.) |
| Height | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1516-1510 mm (59.69 – 59.45 in.) |
| Rear track | 1524-1518 mm (60 – 59.76 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 975 mm (38.39 in.) |
| Ride height | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Solaris variant is the Hyundai Kappa II 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated internally as the G4FA, utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth operation over high peak power. The 100 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 132 Nm (97 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm are typical figures for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement in this class. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and contributing to the vehicle’s ease of driving. This transmission, while not known for particularly sporty performance, was selected for its reliability and refinement. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration are standard for compact sedans in this segment.
Driving Characteristics
The Solaris 1.4 Automatic delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 12.3 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 12.9 seconds, making it suitable for urban and highway driving but not for spirited performance. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, resulting in a relatively relaxed driving feel. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. Higher trim levels, equipped with a 1.6-liter engine, offered significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride, though it can feel somewhat soft during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 MPI Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included dual front airbags, ABS, and a rear parking sensor. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Solaris II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback. Tire sizes typically ranged from 185/65 R15 to 195/55 R16, depending on the trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Solaris II 1.4 Automatic was generally well-received in its target markets. Critics praised its affordability, reliability, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of power and the automatic transmission’s somewhat sluggish response. Compared to competitors like the Skoda Rapid, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Logan, the Solaris offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg). The 1.6L engine variants were often preferred by drivers seeking more performance, but the 1.4L automatic remained a popular choice for those prioritizing value and ease of use.
Legacy
The Hyundai Solaris II, and specifically the 1.4 MPI Automatic variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Kappa II engine is known for its longevity, and the six-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well over time. In the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and low running costs. While not a performance icon, the Solaris II 1.4 Automatic served as a practical and dependable transportation solution for a wide range of buyers, solidifying Hyundai’s position as a major player in the compact sedan segment.
