Hyundai i30 review
By Motor Match • 15/11/2023
The Hyundai i30 is a compact hatchback known for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and strong build quality.
What is it?
If you go back 15 years, Hyundai was known as a fairly budget brand, producing run-of-the-mill models that didn’t have much going for them other than the price. But it was the Hyundai i30 hatchback that helped to get this firm noticed as a mainstream player, and allowed it to propel the brand where it is today, where it’s increasingly a premium firm.
We’re now on the third generation of i30, and there’s even been a sporty i30 N model, regarded as one of the best hot hatches of recent years. But here we’re looking at the standard car, which has recently had an update. Let’s find out what it’s like.
What’s new?
The most recent generation of i30 arrived back in 2017, so this is a hatchback that is just starting to show its age. This latest update gives this hatchback a fresher face with a bolder grille, however.
Under the surface it’s also available with fuel-saving mild-hybrid engines for the first time, and there’s a larger touchscreen used too, as has been doing the rounds on recent Hyundai models.
What’s under the bonnet?
Hyundai has slimmed down its line-up of engines in recent years, and there are only two units currently available in the i30.
It starts with a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine, using mild-hybrid engine technology. You can have it with a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic, with drive being sent to the front wheels. Accelerating to 60mph takes around 11 seconds, while Hyundai claims strong efficiency, with a fuel economy figure of 52.2mpg and 122g/km CO2 emissions.
On the N-Line version, Hyundai offers a more sprightly 157bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired to a manual gearbox. It can manage 0-60mph in a speedier 8.4 seconds, while Hyundai claims 44.8mpg and 144g/km CO2 emissions.
What’s it like to drive?
While Hyundai might offer the thrilling i30 N hot hatch, this standard car remains far more on the sensible end of the scale.
It’s not exciting in any way, but it would be very easy to live with, with a comfortable ride and strong refinement, even at higher speeds. This engine does the i30 no favours, though, often feeling slow and lethargic at times. The Focus Focus or Seat Leon are far better steers behind the wheel.
How does it look?
As far as updates go, we think the changes made to the i30 are certainly welcome. The front-end design is far more interesting, with a wider grille that uses a cool spindle pattern. New LED headlights are also fitted with a ‘V’ signature, while around the back new lights and a different bumper help sharpen things up.
If you want something a bit more interesting, Hyundai also offers the N-Line version, with sportier styling inspired by the proper hot hatch model.
What’s it like inside?
Inside, the Hyundai i30 looks more modern with its 10.25-inch touchscreen, fitted to all but the most basic models. It’s slick to operate as well, with plenty of features included. The i30’s cabin isn’t the most exciting, but the quality is generally good while the ergonomics are excellent.
In terms of space, the i30’s boot measures a handy 395 litres. There should be enough rear seat space for smaller families, but cars like the Volkswagen Golf and Seat Leon offer more room in this respect.
What’s the spec like?
Regardless of version, the i30 comes with a decent level of equipment. Highlights on the standard SE Connect trim includes an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a reversing camera and LED headlights.
Above this, the Premium trim brings the larger touchscreen, along with dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and heated front seats. The top-spec N-Line is only available with the more powerful engine, with the spec broadly mirroring the Premium, but it gains larger 18-inch alloy wheels and a sportier bodykit.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a well-equipped and well-priced family hatchback, the Hyundai i30 will tick lots of boxes. It’s easy to drive, while Hyundai’s unlimited-mileage, five-year warranty is a big bonus.
The i30 is a car that you struggle to get excited about, though, particularly from behind the wheel. It’s far from a bad choice, but there are many better and more interesting cars available in this class.
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