Hyundai i30 Hatchback full 9 point review
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Performance
The range kicks off with our favourite engine, a smooth and flexible 107bhp 1.4; and, although there is a stronger 1.6-litre unit, it only comes with an automatic gearbox. In addition, there are two diesel engines, with 89- and 113bhp. We're yet to drive the weaker one of the pair, but the stronger unit provides a good balance between performance and economy.
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Ride & Handling
The i30's handling isn't class-leading, but it's not far off the pace. It deals with corners comfortably, although the steering does feel a little light and is short of feel. The Hyundai also gives a civilised ride - it takes a really nasty surface to unsettle it.
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Refinement
The i30 is pretty quiet as family hatchbacks go. Wind noise is subdued, but road- and suspension noise intrude a little over poor surfaces. The 1.6-litre diesel engine is quiet at speed; the 1.6 petrol booms at higher revs and both it and the 1.4 have to work hard on the motorway.
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Buying & Owning
The i30 undercuts most mainstream rivals on price, making it terrific value, but you won’t get as big a discount as you would on a Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra. Resale values are pretty good, and running costs are affordable – the 1.6 diesel is particularly frugal, with average economy of over 60mpg. You can improve that further still by adding the ISG start-stop system, but it's a £200 option, and available only on manual-transmission cars.
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Quality & Reliability
The i30’s cabin feels solidly constructed and durable, but it’s not as classy as a VW Golf’s or Vauxhall Astra’s. It’s also let down by little things, such as the flimsy indicator stalks. Like every Hyundai, the i30 comes with a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. Hyundai's reliability record is average, but the i30 is one of its better cars, finishing a fine third in its class in the 2011 JD Power customer satisfaction survey.
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Safety & Security
Even the cheapest models come with six airbags, active front seat head restraints and warning lights to tell you if everyone has their seatbelt on. Stability control is also standard, something that costs extra with many rivals. Deadlocks are fitted and the doors lock automatically as you pull away.
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Behind The Wheel
Unlike in many previous Hyundais, the i30 has a steering column that adjusts for both reach and height. The range of movement is limited, however, and taller drivers may wish that the steering wheel moved higher. At least the seats are supportive and adjust for height. The dashboard is logically arranged and mostly easy to use.
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Space & Practicality
The i30 has more passenger space than many cars in this class. There’s plenty of headroom, but it’s the amount of rear legroom that’s most impressive, which allows those in the back seats to really stretch out. While the boot isn’t as big or well shaped as some, it’s a good size and the rear seats fold almost flat for extra space.
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Equipment
The amount of kit you get for your cash is staggering. Even entry-level Classic cars have air-con and electric front windows, but you need to step up to Comfort for steering wheel-mounted stereo controls, electric rear windows and alloy wheels. Top Premium models also feature climate control, automatic wipers and reversing sensors.
i30 used car reviews
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Hyundai i30 Hatchback 1.4 Classic 5dr
Cheap to buy and cheap to run, this is a fine car. Some may think it's worth finding the extra for the Comfort model, but we think this - the cheapest model - makes most sense.
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