Hyundai announces new people carrier, seats eight

Hyundai have revealed their answer to overcrowded vehicles - the new i800 people carrier will have room for plenty of luggage ... and will seat eight people as well.

Marketed as a "classy way to carry eight people and luggage in a car that costs less than £20,000", the i800 has 851 litres of space in the boot, even when loaded with passengers, which is twice as much as some estate cars.

Both rear benches feature a 60:40 split-fold and reline, while the centre row also slides forwards or backwards to tailor space as required. All of the rear seats are accessed by a pair of sliding doors.

The interior is more car-like than other minibus-style rivals, with two-tone interior trim, privacy glass, a six-speaker audio system and ducted air conditioning throughout. Individually controlled overhead vents in the rear can keep all occupants cool, as well.

The new carrier has a purpose-built coil-sprung rear suspension system, with five locating links to ensure optimum ride quality. Alloy wheels are also a standard feature.

The engine is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder CRDi diesel, intercooled and featuring a variable-geometry turbo. Peak power output is 170 PS, with a substantial 392 Nm of torque. Balancer shafts mean the engine remains smooth and refined under stress.

The i800 does 33.2 miles per gallon, thanks to a 75 litre tank. Hyundai estimate a driver could go more than 560 miles between fill ups.

As for safety features, the car has ESP and traction control systems, plus dual airbags. All occupants will have three-point seatbelts on offer.

The i800 goes on sale on June 20th, costing £19,495, joined later in the year by a lower power, lower specification version at, yes, a lower price. It will also be covered by a five year, manufacturer backed, unlimited mileage warranty.