The Hyundai i800 is more than just a panel van. This model goes beyond being a commercial value car by refining what most people would expect from a large people carrier. Although the boxy appearance won’t appeal to those after style, this shape enables the interior to have more interior space. Families won’t have any problems bringing the clan of eight, even if all eight happen to be adults. Drivers also won’t have to worry about these eight passengers complaining about noise levels, comfort, and space. But how else does the Hyundai fare along the road, in terms of engine performance and ride handling?

Pros

Only one engine is offered in the Hyundai i800: the 2.5-litre CRDi diesel at 170bhp. But the sole choice isn’t limiting as it not only delivers low down pulling power and smooth refinement, but is also able to arrive at a 62mph sprint in just 14.5 seconds. The CRDi sets itself apart with its overtaking capability and swift performance along the motorway. Positive changes are delivered care of the engine’s five-speed manual gearbox. Fuel economy is practical as well at 33mpg.

The i800 overcomes its heavy weight via responsive steering, body roll control, and agile movement throughout any road condition. You won’t have any problem navigating this boxy large carrier through twisted roads. The carrier is also able to absorb bumps and potholes along difficult roads. You also won’t have any problems going into the turning circle and slithering the car through small spaces. Rear parking sensors make the i800’s large corners and bulky mass easier to fit within limited or cornered spaces. Traffic isn’t a problem either for this practical family car. All these practical features are sold at an affordable budget, so you won’t have any problems investing in this model as you also save for your child’s college fund or in keeping up with property dues.

A decent ride is promised along most road conditions and this can be credited to the i800’s coil-sprung rear. The more individuals and objects are loaded, the more improved the rear becomes. The interior is also quite comfortable for every passenger. You won’t have any problems keeping children entertained as they enjoy the large carrier’s panoramic view.  

All seats are comfortable and legroom is ample enough for all passengers. The middle row chairs can be moved forward to increase knee space in the rear row. Even with eight people inside, you won’t have any problems getting into and out of the car as the large side doors are quick and light to slide. Access is also within reach on both seat rows.

Cons 

The only downside we see to the i800 is its lack of reach adjustment on the steering column. The build quality behind the wheel is top notch, but some portions are made of noticeably cheaper plastics. Room is still ample and comfortable for the driver and the view more than complete via the large windscreen. 

Expect the i800 to come well equipped with its air conditioning, third row controls, electric mirrors, reversing sensors, electric front windows, CD stereo, immobilizer, leather steering wheel, and 16-inch alloy wheels, just to name a few.

        The Hyundai i800 is a van built by the car manufacturing juggernaut, the Hyundai Motor Company in South Korea, and in Indonesia. It is the second generation of the original Hyundai H-1 series (it was called the Hyundai H200 in The Netherlands).  It is also known by many other names, including the Hyundai iMax, the Hyundai iLoad, and most notably and most popularly, the Hyundai Grand Starex.

        Production of the first generation of the i800 started back at 1997. The modern i800, or the second generation started being manufactured at 2007. The i800 was improved to provide more storage than the first generation of itself and to perform at better levels, containing a much stronger CRDi engine with a 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder in-line with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger, wherein the first generation utilized a 2.5 SOHC 8-valve turbodiesel engine. It includes a total of 8 seats, 2 of which are small seats, and 6 are full-size normal seats. The i800 comes in both manual and automatic transmissions, with a 5-speed and 4-speed type, respectively.

        The Hyundai i800 has evolved from a long line of predecessors, but has truly been perfected, which is why it has earned consecutive awards from 2003 all the way to 2008, including "The Best MPV".