Vehicle Description

Hyundai i30 1.0T GDi Premium 5dr Hatchback (71 Plate) Review

The 71-plate Hyundai i30 1.0T GDi Premium is a stylish, practical, and well-equipped hatchback that offers a strong combination of performance, comfort, and modern technology. Positioned as one of the top trims in the i30 lineup, the Premium model delivers a more luxurious driving experience without straying too far from Hyundai’s focus on affordability and reliability.

Exterior and Design
The Hyundai i30 Premium boasts a sleek and modern design that exudes sophistication. Key exterior features include:

A bold cascading front grille with chrome detailing for a premium look.
Full LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights, giving it a sharp and contemporary appearance.
Sporty 17-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its road presence.
A sculpted body with smooth lines and a subtle roof spoiler for a dynamic yet refined aesthetic.
The i30 Premium’s design strikes a balance between elegance and sportiness, making it suitable for both urban and motorway driving.

Interior and Comfort
Step inside the i30 Premium, and you’re greeted with a well-crafted, spacious, and comfortable cabin. Key highlights include:

Leather-effect upholstery with heated front seats, adding a touch of luxury.
A heated steering wheel for added comfort during colder months.
A well-laid-out dashboard with high-quality materials and soft-touch finishes.
Ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it ideal for families.
A 395-liter boot, which expands to 1,301 liters with the rear seats folded, offering excellent practicality for a hatchback.
The cabin is quiet and well-insulated, providing a refined driving experience even at higher speeds.

Technology and Features
The i30 Premium trim is packed with modern technology and advanced features, ensuring a comfortable and connected driving experience. These include:

A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Built-in satellite navigation with live traffic updates.
A 7-inch digital driver display for customizable driving information.
A wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports for added convenience.
Dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
Front and rear parking sensors with a reversing camera.
The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, offering crisp graphics and seamless smartphone integration.

Performance and Engine
The Hyundai i30 is powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 118 bhp and 172 Nm of torque. Paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, it offers a smooth and responsive drive.

0-60 mph: 11.2 seconds.
Top speed: 118 mph.
While it’s not the most powerful engine in the lineup, the 1.0T GDi is perfect for urban commutes and light motorway use, providing a balance of performance and efficiency.

Driving Dynamics
The i30 Premium delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. Its highlights include:

A well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and uneven road surfaces effectively.
Light and precise steering, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and urban areas.
Stable and predictable handling, offering confidence on winding roads and at motorway speeds.
While the i30 isn’t designed for sporty driving, it offers a refined and enjoyable ride, making it an excellent all-rounder.

Fuel Economy
The 1.0T GDi engine is efficient, achieving an average fuel economy of around 50 mpg (combined), depending on driving conditions. Its start/stop system further improves efficiency in stop-and-go traffic, keeping running costs low.

Practicality and Space
The i30 Premium is a practical hatchback that offers:

A spacious 395-liter boot, perfect for everyday errands, shopping, or small family trips.
The ability to expand the boot space to 1,301 liters by folding the 60/40 split rear seats, accommodating larger items or luggage.
Generous interior storage, including cupholders, door bins, and a central armrest compartment.
The five-door layout ensures easy access for passengers, making it a versatile choice for families or professionals.

Safety Features
Hyundai places a strong emphasis on safety, and the i30 Premium is no exception. It comes equipped with an impressive suite of advanced safety features, including:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA).
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA).
Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Driver Attention Warning (DAW) to monitor fatigue.
Adaptive cruise control for effortless motorway driving.
These features contribute to the i30’s high safety ratings, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Reliability and Warranty
Hyundai’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, and the i30 is no exception. As a 71-plate model, it benefits from the remainder of Hyundai’s 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, adding further reassurance for buyers.

Conclusion
The 71-plate Hyundai i30 1.0T GDi Premium 5dr Hatchback is a well-rounded and reliable hatchback that excels in comfort, technology, and practicality. With its modern design, efficient engine, and extensive features, it’s a fantastic option for families, professionals, or anyone looking for a dependable and stylish everyday car.

Verdict: A refined and feature-packed hatchback that combines practicality and comfort with excellent value for money. Perfect for urban commuters and small families.