Hyundai i30

If there was ever a sign that Korean carmaker Hyundai has hit its straps it's in the new i30 hatch.

Already one of the most popular cars in its class the i 30 has to be one of the best value cars on the market.

The upspec Premium model with an asking price of just over 30K is simply a masterpiece of technology with just about every conceivable feature that normally you'd find in a luxury European model.

The list is endless...

Heated side mirrors that fold automatically when parked, incorporating  puddle and door handle lights which activate when the car is approached ,when the keyless entry fob is in your pocket or handbag.

Automatic wipers and headlights, full length glass roof with the front half that opens into a sunroof... A retractable blind covers the entire panel in summer when needed..

 Standard reversing camera that hides beneath the tilting rear Hyundai badge, standard sat nav, heated leather front seats,and a marvellous sound system with subwoofer and an electrically operated handbrake,are further proof of the exceptional thought that's gone into the vehicle.

There is also a dual temperature climate control, for passenger and driver, and i pod and bluetooth connectivity.

The style of the car is right on target..

Two young tradies stopped next to me at the lights one day were amazed that it was a Hyundai, saying to me, " nice car mate."

You don't often get praise like that in previous incarnations of any Hyundai in my experience.   

The 1.6 litre turbo diesel mated to an six speed auto transmission is not as quiet or powerful as say those from the VW or Peugeot stable, with just 260 odd nm compared to 350 or so from the Europeans,but is very frugal and there will be few complaints from owners about it's torquey characteristics in town or on the highway. 

The steering wheel is adjustable for reach and rake, and there are three resistance settings, normal, comfort and sport, although I couldn't discern much difference between them. 

Ride comfort is on par with the rest of the class.. slightly on the firm side but quite acceptable except over the largest road irregularities when the occupants will know what they have just driven over.

The 17 inch alloy wheels on the premium model , a mix of flat aluminium and chrome spokes look sensational, even better than many aftermarket wheels.

I averaged just over 6 litres per 100 kilometres in mostly city driving with the air con on.

On the highway you could reasonably expect five litres or less, which is far better than the petrol powered equivalents.   

Stability control and multiple airbags round out what is one of the most complete packages in any car I have driven at any price.

The i 30 is sure to grow even more in stature with the public once they sample just how good it is.

Peter Sellen