Hyundai I800
Used Car Review

Overview

Need a vehicle that can carry eight people without breaking a sweat? The Hyundai I800 might be the practical solution you’ve been searching for. This large MPV is built on commercial vehicle foundations, which means it prioritises space, durability, and functionality over flashy features. It’s the car for families who need genuine eight seat capacity or businesses requiring reliable people transport.

From the outside, the I800 looks purposeful rather than pretty. Its boxy shape and upright stance clearly signal this is a vehicle designed for maximum interior space. Step inside and you’ll immediately understand why families and taxi operators choose this MPV. The cabin is genuinely spacious with three rows of proper adult sized seats. Unlike some seven seaters that squeeze in a token third row, every seat in the I800 is usable for real journeys.

The driving experience focuses on comfort and capability rather than excitement. The 2.5 litre diesel engine provides enough power for fully loaded journeys, while the high driving position gives you excellent visibility. Road noise is well controlled for such a large vehicle, making longer trips comfortable for all passengers. While it costs more than smaller MPVs, you’re getting a proven commercial vehicle platform that’s built to handle heavy daily use without complaint.

What's the Hyundai I800 Like to Drive?

The Hyundai I800 comes with a single engine option: a 2.5 litre diesel producing 168 bhp. This might not sound exciting, but it’s perfectly matched to the vehicle’s purpose. The engine provides strong low end torque, which means pulling away with a full load of passengers and luggage feels effortless. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 12 seconds, which is reasonable for such a large MPV.

Where the I800 impresses is in its composed road manners. The steering is light at parking speeds but weights up nicely on the motorway. The suspension setup prioritises comfort over handling, soaking up bumps and road imperfections effectively. This makes it a relaxing vehicle for long distance family trips or airport runs. The five speed manual gearbox feels robust and shifts smoothly, though you need to plan overtakes carefully due to the vehicle’s size and weight. Wind noise is surprisingly well controlled, contributing to a calm cabin environment that passengers appreciate.

Inside the Hyundai I800: Comfort & Features

The I800’s interior is where this MPV truly shines. The cabin feels spacious and airy, with large windows providing excellent visibility for all passengers. The dashboard design is simple and functional rather than stylish, but everything falls easily to hand. The materials are hard wearing rather than luxurious, reflecting the vehicle’s commercial origins. However, build quality feels solid throughout, with switches and controls operating with reassuring precision.

Seating comfort is impressive across all three rows. The front seats offer good support and multiple adjustment options to help you find the perfect driving position. The second and third rows provide genuine adult accommodation, not the cramped spaces found in many smaller MPVs. Individual seats can be folded, removed, or reconfigured to suit different passenger and cargo needs. Air conditioning is standard and effective throughout the large cabin. While you won’t find cutting edge infotainment technology, the I800 includes practical features like multiple power outlets and plenty of storage compartments for family essentials.

The Hyundai I800 succeeds by focusing on what matters most for large family transport: space, reliability, and practicality. It delivers genuine eight seat capacity in a package that’s comfortable for long journeys and robust enough for daily family duties. The diesel engine provides adequate performance while the simple mechanical layout promises years of dependable service.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Hyundai I800 Expensive to Run?

The I800’s running costs reflect its size and commercial vehicle origins. Fuel economy ranges from 32 to 35 mpg in real world driving, which is reasonable for such a large vehicle but higher than smaller family cars. Insurance costs are moderate, typically falling into groups 15 to 18 depending on the specific trim level. The diesel engine’s reliability and simple mechanical layout help keep maintenance costs predictable.

Purchase prices for used examples vary significantly based on age and mileage. Expect to pay more than for conventional family cars, but the I800’s durability and proven reliability help protect your investment. Hyundai’s five year warranty on newer models provides additional peace of mind for buyers concerned about potential repair bills. For families needing genuine eight seat transport, car finance options can help spread the cost while you enjoy the practical benefits immediately. Overall, the I800 represents good value if you need its specific combination of space and capability.

Hyundai I800 Practicality & Boot Space

The Hyundai I800 excels in practicality above almost everything else in its class. With all eight seats in place, you still get 851 litres of boot space, which easily accommodates luggage for a family holiday or sports equipment for a team trip. The individual seats can be folded flat or completely removed to create van like cargo capacity when needed. Wide sliding rear doors make accessing the rear seats simple, even in tight car parks.

The I800’s commercial vehicle heritage shows in thoughtful practical details throughout. Multiple cup holders, storage bins, and charging points are scattered around the cabin to keep passengers happy on longer journeys. The high roof means adults can move around inside without stooping. For families with teenagers or businesses needing reliable people transport, the I800 offers unmatched space and flexibility compared to other used Hyundai cars. Its only limitation is urban parking, where the length and width require careful positioning in standard spaces.

The Hyundai I800 stands out in the large MPV market by offering genuine eight seat capability in a reliable, well built package. It combines commercial vehicle durability with passenger car comfort levels, creating a vehicle that works equally well for large families and small businesses. While it may not offer the latest technology or most efficient running costs, it excels in the areas that matter most for buyers in this segment.

You choose the I800 because you need its specific combination of space, seats, and dependability. It’s perfectly suited for families who regularly travel with multiple generations or groups who need comfortable transport for longer journeys. If you’re looking for practical eight seat transport that won’t let you down, especially with cars under £10,000 available on the used market, the Hyundai I800 should be at the top of your consideration list.