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What is it?
A Hyundai you might buy instead of a Volkswagen Golf, particularly if you’re looking for good value. The five-year unlimited mileage warranty is a big draw, but so too is the i30’s bold looks, comfort and plentiful standard equipment, all for sensible money. Running costs won’t be high, either, all the diesel models - 1.4- and 1.6-litre options - cost €190 annually to tax, though you’ll add €10 to that if you need an auto. There’s an entry-level petrol model too, but we’d avoid that.
What is it like?
The i30 does everything with a tick-box level of competence without standing out in any particular area. That’s ignoring the styling of course, which is a bit more dramatic than its sometimes conservative rivals'. The interior is well built, the design as bold as the exterior, without being too fussy and there’s competitive passenger space all round. The steering is a bit vague, and the suspension lacks the fine control of a Ford Focus, but it’s a good all-rounder on the road, regardless.
Carzone verdict: 3.5/5
That base competence, mated with the fine economy and ease of use - and, yes, broken record here, THAT warranty - make the i30 a compelling buy in the family hatchback marketplace. The 1.6-litre diesel in Deluxe trim does everything you’d want, for sensible money, and with a comprehensive standard list of equipment, though if you can live without alloy wheels, and don’t mind the smaller diesel (you shouldn’t) then Classic trim hardly scrimps on kit at its attractive entry price.