Test drive Hyundai i30: one for all
Test Drive

Test drive Hyundai i30: one for all

First kilometers behind the wheel of the new 1,4-liter turbo model

The new edition of the Hyundai I30 is a great example of how consistent the Koreans are in constantly improving their cars. First impressions.

Let's start with a well-maintained 1.6-liter diesel. Then comes the temperamental and characteristic-sounding three-cylinder petrol unit. Finally, we come to the most interesting - a brand new 1,4-liter gasoline turbo engine with 140 hp. 242 Nm at 1500 rpm promise decent dynamics.

Test drive Hyundai i30: one for all

However, the four-cylinder engine showed its power a little later. Traction becomes truly confident only after passing 2200 rpm, when all the temperament of a modern direct injection engine is revealed. The manual transmission allows easy and precise shifting, so pressing the shift lever relatively often is a pleasure. The selected segment fits very well with the character of the i30.

With a stiffer chassis than before, the new model remains stiff but not too stiff on the road. At the same time, the steering system pleasantly surprises with excellent precision and excellent feedback when the front wheels are in contact with the road. Thus, corner by corner, we gradually begin to wonder how spontaneous and neutral this Hyundai is. Understeer only occurs when you approach the limits of physical laws.

The I30, developed in Rüsselsheim and manufactured in the Czech Republic, demonstrates very convincing performance on the road. We are already looking forward to the sporty N variant with a XNUMX-liter turbo engine and adaptive dampers, which is expected in the fall. In front of him, Hyundai dealers will have a practical version with a station wagon.

The i30 features a simple and understated design that will appeal to customers around the world. Its main feature is Hyundai's new cascading grille.

Test drive Hyundai i30: one for all

There are many technological innovations: the previous bi-xenon swivel headlights have been replaced by LED ones. With a camera in the windshield and an integrated radar system in the front grille, the i30 powers a number of auxiliary systems. Lane Keeping Assist is standard on all versions.

Sit back and feel comfortable

The cabin is clean and comfortable. All buttons and functional elements are located in the right place, the information on the control devices is easy to read, there is enough space for objects. In addition, the luggage compartment holds a serious 395 liters - the VW Golf has only 380 liters.

The eight-inch dash-mounted touchscreen is an optional extra that controls all functions of TomTom's infotainment and navigation system, allowing data updates free of charge for seven years.

Test drive Hyundai i30: one for all

Connecting your smartphone is also quick and easy. The only downside here is the fact that Apple Carplay and Android Auto only come with the said add-on system and not the XNUMX-inch serial radio.

Our first impressions of the new i30 are really positive and, in fact, far exceeded our already high expectations. The first comparative tests are coming soon. Let's see if the i30 will prepare a new pleasant surprise for us then!

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