By Derek Odgen
The Hyundai i30 is already a firm favourite with new-car buyers – it was Australia’s fourth best-selling vehicle for 2014. Now it has been given the once-over, making the hatchback even more appealing.
Back-to-back winner of the coveted Australia’s Best Cars Best Small Car Under $35,000 award for the past two years, the i30 Series II has had the automotive broom put through it – Active, new ActiveX, SR (replacing Elite), SR Premium and Premium.
Taking cues from its upmarket Sonata and Genesis big brothers, the i30 Series II boasts a deeper, more assertive front grille, while in-cabin updates include the addition in the entry-level Active of a new 5-inch touchscreen audio system with benchmark connectivity, including Pandora internet radio, Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary input, iPod and MP3.
SR Premium and Premium variants now boast ventilated front seats, among a long list of standard equipment, including a rear-view camera combined with four-sensor rear-parking assist as standard equipment across the range.
There is a choice of three engines – two petrol, one diesel – and three transmissions. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission makes its debut as an option on diesel-powered Active and ActiveX variants but is standard on the diesel-only i30 Series II Premium. The gearbox will be rolled out in future Hyundai product.
However, it’s in the running gear that Australia holds a special spot for the i30 Series II because it benefits from extensive suspension and steering development by Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s respected local tuning team. SR models feature a bespoke sports suspension tune, delivering sharp, responsive turn-in and improved handling while retaining the i30’s supple, rounded ride quality.
The all-new i30 variant, the ActiveX, is designed to deliver better value and more premium features than the Active grade.
The new kid on the block includes sporty, new-design 16-inch alloy wheels with machined-face finish and recessed gunmetal- grey inserts, electric folding external mirrors with inbuilt LED side repeaters, black leather trim on the steering wheel, gear knob, door trims and instrument panel hood.
Hyundai i30 Series II Active and ActiveX models sport a larger hexagonal front grille with black slats and satin chrome inserts.
SR, SR Premium and Premium variants have gunmetal grey slats with satin chrome inserts. LED daytime running lights and combination tail-lights are now standard. SR variants have a lower diffuser in the rear bumper.
Prices start at $20,990 for the i30 1.8 MPi petrol Active six-speed manual; the new ActiveX manual is $22,090; while the 1.6 CRDi Premium seven-speed double clutch transmission is $34,490.
