- For: Equipment, running costs, reliability
- Against: Dull to drive, forgettable styling, cramped in the back
- Verdict: Well-equipped family car with a long warranty
The i30 is a mid-size family hatchback – and Hyundai’s answer to the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf.
To that end, it’s available in a range of body styles, alongside the i30 N hot hatch – Hyundai’s very own Golf GTI rival.
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Although it can’t quite match the Golf in terms of all-round appeal, it’s one of the best ‘also rans’, and is backed by an excellent five-year, unlimited mileage warranty.
Unless you opt for the Nurburgring-tuned N, the Hyundai is far from exciting, but you get a lot for your money. The amount of standard safety equipment is particularly impressive, and the i30 gained a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests.
Engines include a brilliant 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol, which does an admirable job of powering the i30 while delivering excellent fuel economy (61.4mpg in official tests).
The i30 Fastback is essentially a hatchback with sleeker styling and less space for rear passengers, while the i30 Tourer estate is the choice for those who regularly visit Ikea.
Prices look good value, starting at £20,900, but can get expensive at the top of the range.
KEY INFO
- Launched: 2016
- Facelifted: 2020
- Due for replacement: TBC
Rivals: Ford Focus, Kia Ceed, Volkswagen Golf