Hyundai i30 Fastback review

It’s safe to say Hyundai isn’t known for its visually exciting interiors, and the i30 Fastback does little to change this reputation. Most of the areas you’ll touch regularly feel pleasant enough to your fingertips, and all the buttons are big and easy to press. The pedals are well places, and the driver’s seat is comfortable and supportive, with electric lumbar adjustment standard on all models.

In terms of fit and finish, the i30 Fastback is more than a match for most cars in this class, we just wish there was a touch more flair and drama to its design of the interior. At least N Line trim adds a bit of visual interest, with contrasting seat stitching, metal pedals and a sportier steering wheel.

In terms of infotainment, all models get an 8.0in colour touchscreen with sat-nav, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring. Although it's not the most graphically sharp system out there, it is easy to navigate and quick to respond. It has handy shortcut buttons below the screen, too, that make it easy to switch between sat-nav and radio, for example, while on the move.

What is disappointing, however, is the lack of rearward visibility. Thanks to the tapering roofline, all you can see in the rear view mirror is the dark headliner. This is the inevitable consequence of that sleek roofline, but is partially negated by a reversing camera and parking sensors being standard on all i30 Fastback models.