Hyundai has updated the popular i30 by giving it a fresh look, adding more features, and shaking up the model names. The diesel option also welcomes a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, as well as an increase in output.
Five models now feature in the lineup; Active, ActiveX, SR, SR Premium, and Premium. From the front, the i30 Series II boasts a deeper, more assertive front grille that more closely aligns it with its “upmarket, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0-designed Sonata and Genesis stable mates”.
Step inside the base model i30 Active and you’ll notice an a new five-inch touchscreen audio system, which includes Pandora internet radio, Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary input, iPod and MP3 connectivity. Other standard equipment includes cruise control, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, power windows, and keyless entry.
The new ActiveX model add features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed trim, a “premium” steering wheel, gear knob, door trims, and instruments panel hood, alloy-look interior door handles, and electric folding mirrors.
The middle SR model, which replaces the Elite, adds LED taillights, a sports front grille in gunmetal grey with satin chrome highlights, a matt black rear diffuser, dual-zone climate control, and a larger seven-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation.
Step up to the SR Premium and Premium models and you gain ventilated front seats, leather trim, panoramic glass roof, one-touch power windows, rain-sensing wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, HID Xenon headlights, and an electronic park brake.
Hyundai has increased the output of the 1.6-litre CRDI turbo-diesel engine to 100kW up from 94kW, while torque has also been increased to 300Nm from 260Nm, but only for models fitted with the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission – six-speed manual models remain at 260Nm. Output for the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines remains the same at 107kW/175Nm and 124kW/201Nm respectively
Active and ActiveX models come standard with the 1.8-litre four-cylinder and six-speed manual, with the 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine and both the six-speed automatic and seven-speed dual-clutch units coming at an extra cost.
The SR and SR Premium come standard with the gutsier 2.0-litre four-cylinder and six-speed manual, with the choice of the optional six-speed automatic transmission. The Premium model exclusively comes with the 1.6-litre turbo-diesel and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Safety-wise, all i30 models feature a five-star ANCAP rating, and come standard with no less than seven airbags. All models are also covered by Hyundai’s five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.
Manufacturer’s list prices for the 2015 i30 Series II start from $20,990 for the Active, and top out at $34,490 for the Premium. See full price list below (excluding on-road costs).
| Engine | Transmission |
Active |
ActiveX |
SR |
SR Premium |
Premium |
| 1.8 MPi Petrol | 6 Speed Manual |
$20,990 |
$22,090 |
– |
– |
– |
| 6 Speed Auto |
$23,290 |
$24,390 |
– |
– |
– |
|
| 2.0 GDi Petrol | 6 Speed Manual |
– |
$25,590 |
$30,590 |
– |
|
| 6 Speed Auto |
– |
$27,890 |
$32,890 |
– |
||
| 1.6 CRDi Diesel | 6 Speed Manual |
$23,590 |
$24,690 |
– |
– |
– |
| 7 Speed DCT |
$25,890 |
$26,990 |
– |
– |
$34,490 |
