Haima 1

From the size of the car itself it is clear that the Haima 1 is smaller than the Toyota Wigo and only slightly larger than the Mitsubishi Mirage. But thankfully this has not affected the inside space as much. Let’s just say that thinner passengers in the rear seats will have a better time in the rear seats than fatter ones. The front row seats are equally spacious and comfortable. The quality of materials is as cheap as you’d expect at this price range, but nothing to scoff at. The air conditioner is manual and the 4 speaker audio setup is basic. It does, however, allow USB connectivity. Along with a single CD player. Basics like storage space for knick-knack is also well catered for. Overall a good list of amenities for its price.

The Haima 1 builds on the old Daewoo Matiz design and it is easy to see the resemblance. The dimensions are just as compact at 3662 mm (L) x 1540 mm (W) x 1502 mm (H). The front carries almost the same fascia with a thin lip of a grille with sharp headlights on the sides and a large gaping grille occupying the bumper flanked by round fog lights. The bumper is well integrated into the car’s body and sports curves along the sides to give it a dynamic appeal. The view from the sides carries over the modular look from the front. The only break in this is offered by the black surface behind the C pillar which looks slightly out of place. The view from the rear sports the same treatment under the large rear window. The roof sports a luggage rack and a small spoiler. The 13” wheels are wrapped in 175/60 tires.

The suspension is handled by independent MacPherson struts up front and a swing arm type non-independent setup at the rear. This is not the most ideal setup but for normal everyday driving, it should not pose an issue. Other cars in the segment also have similar setups. Steering is made effortless with hydraulic powered steering. The turning radius is 4.9 m.

The Haima 1 is powered by a 1.2L DOHC inline 4 16 V engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission with power being sent to the front wheels. The maximum power is rated at 91 hp at 6000 rpm and maximum torque is rated at 112 Nm at 4000 rpm. That is a lot of power for a car of this size and should propel the car to highway friendly speeds easily enough. The engine is Euro IV compliant while also being quite fuel efficient at 19 kmpl. The fuel tank itself has a capacity of 30 L. The engine is refined with low NVH levels.

The Haima 1 gets disc brakes for the front and drum brakes for the rear. These are assisted by ABS with EBD. Along with airbags in the front for both the driver and the passenger, the Haima 1 provides a lot of safety to its passengers for the price. One of the safest cars in its price bracket. There are several warning systems too in place that remind the driver about unlocked doors. Conveniences like remote central door locking and central locking and rear child safety lock are also in place.

The best reason for buying the Haima 1 might be the cheap price tag. But this does not deprive you of having essentials like ABS and dual airbags which are often not available in cars from brands which should know better. And that alone has proven to be a very big deal seeing the response that Haima has gotten over the years.