Hyundai i30 Road Test

Hyundai i30

All of which helps to propel the i30 from 0-62mph in 11.1 seconds and the top speed is 119mph, which appears to be average but…and it is a big ‘but’. To quote Hyundai, “The i30 boasts fully independent rear suspension, the result of which is truly outstanding ride and handling with excellent levels of refinement.” Hyperbole aside, the PR people are not fibbing.

When I first drove the i30, I thought that it felt light and inconsequential. I really wasn’t going to like it. A mile later and I had completely changed my mind. It has the dynamic capabilities and agility to compete with more expensive vehicles and the handling is confidence inspiring for novice and experienced drivers, alike.

The price for this grin-inducing drive is in the fuel consumption figures. They are not bad but could be better. Having said that, the urban cycle is said to return 35.3mpg, which shows that town driving doesn’t have to create a thirst and the extra-urban figure of 54.3mpg is reasonable. The combined works out as 45.5mpg and the exhaust emits 152g/km CO2.

I have just read that there is now an i30 bearing a green badge to show its cleaner credentials. It is powered by a version of the 1.6-litre diesel engine with a Diesel Particulate Filter. This new version produces CO2 at a rate of just 119g/km, which not only means an saving on VED but if Ken’s plans are accepted, it will qualify for a 100 per cent discount on the London Congestion Charge.

A C-segment car is expected to appeal to and accommodate all types of family group and business users, alike, hence the need for variations on the basic theme. For this reason, Hyundai have produced an i30 estate for extra load-lugging, which should be in the shops, any time now. In the meantime, the 5-door hatch offers between 340- and 1,250-litres of carrying capacity, with the rear seats up or folded away, respectively.

Passengers have an easy ride, too. Thanks to the i30’s long wheelbase, adults sitting in the deep, rear seats will find there is adequate legroom and for younger families, there are ISOFIX mountings on the outer seats.

All in all, the i30 is well worth a look. It is safety conscious but without losing it’s sense of fun and sneakily, special. I think that Hyundai have got it right and if I had to sum up the i30 in one word, it would be ‘impressive’.

Hyundai i30