Sharp styling, great value, low emissions, say hello to Hyundai i30

December 5, 2016

Review of the Hyundai i30

Hyundai has come a long way since its days as a bargain basement brand. Today, it produces seriously competitive cars that can rival the best Europe has to offer, and the i30 hatch was one of the first models to achieve this. The second-generation model delivers a winning blend of space, running costs, equipment and value.

Engines

There's a decision of 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines for Hyundai i30. The pick of the range is the 1.6 CRDi diesel, as it's a smooth and punchy entertainer in both 108bhp and 126bhp appearances. All models get a smooth six-speed manual gearbox, while a six-speed automatic is accessible as an alternative. There’s an 184bhp i30 Turbo for performance fans, but it’s more of a warm hatch than a hot one. It’s good to drive, with plenty of grip and very little body roll, but if you want strong performance we’d recommend stepping up to a Ford Focus ST or VW Golf GTI.

Competitors

The Hyundai i30 rivals hatchbacks like the Mazda 3, Volkswagen Golf and Kia Cee'd. It accompanies a scope of petrol and diesel engines that are geared towards economy rather than power, while the chassis is safe and secure rather than exciting. Trim levels range from basic S, through mid-range SE and SE Nav to top-spec Premium. Entry-level cars get a 1.4-litre petrol engine, although we’d recommend the 1.6 CRDi diesel or 1.6 GDi petrol for their improved performance and engineway refinement. All cars get Bluetooth, keyless entry and tyre pressure monitoring, with top-of-the-range Premium cars boasting 17-inch alloys, automatic lights and wipers, sat-nav and leather effect seats. Interior quality is a step ahead of older Hyundais, although it's starting to look a little dated compared to the latest hatchbacks, while all i30s come with the reassurance of Hyundai's five-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Interior

From behind the wheel the Hyundai i30 is comfortable, the engines are relatively smooth and it’s easy to drive, if not particularly exciting. There’s a decent amount of grip, and while there’s somebody roll in corners, it’s largely kept in check. Active versions and above get the brand’s new Flex Steer system, which allows drivers to choose from Comfort, Normal and Sport settings by pressing a button on the multifunction steering wheel. Flex Steer alters the weighting of the steering to suit road conditions and your mood. However, you’ll struggle to notice the difference in each mode, and even Sport lacks the feedback you get in a Ford Focus or VW Golf.