12:01 pm, March 21, 2017
What is it?
With this new evolution, the i30 has matured, which I’m told is all part of Hyundai’s plan to keep buyers in the brand long-term by focusing more on substance than pure aesthetics. And for the most part it’s succeeded, with refined engines, excellent safety kit as standard and a smooth and comfortable ride.
What’s under the bonnet?
There are three engine options, with the 1.4-litre petrol expected to be the best-seller in the UK. It’s new to the range and will appeal to people who do a mixture of city and motorway driving – with 138bhp and 52.3mpg (51.4 for the auto) running costs should be low.
What’s the spec like?
Straight out of the box, the i30 comes with autonomous emergency braking with a front collision warning system, lane-keeping assistance, high beam assist and sensors that can tell a drowsy driver to take a break. Optional equipment includes blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, speed limit reader and adaptive cruise control.
What’s it like to drive?
The i30 isn’t going to win any awards for its thrilling driving experience, but it does everything well enough.
What do the press think?
CarBuyer said: ‘The Hyundai i30 is a genuinely impressive motorway cruiser, but it’s a shame tighter roads reveal shortcomings.
What do we think?
The Hyundai i30 is a great effort from a manufacturer that’s still young in this industry.
