Hyundai i30 Estate (08-12) - Review

The i30 estate will carry five adults with ease and those in the rear are treated to a few inches more legroom than in the hatchback version. The seats are comfortable but those in the front lack side support which is noticeable on twisting roads. Air conditioning is standard across the range though and front and rear electric windows are also fitted on all models. Noise intrusion is minimal, and the diesel is impressively quiet.

The i30 estate offers 415 litres of storage up to window height with the rear seats in place and when folded there is almost 1400 litres. This isn't the biggest in this class (it's 200 litres fewer than the Renault Megane Sport Tourer and 270 litres smaller than the Kia Ceed SW) but there's plenty of space for a car of this size. The tailgate has near vertical sides so the i30 estate will easily swallow bulky objects.

Although the i30's interior is a little plain, all the controls are clear and neatly designed. Entry-level models are dominated by a large expanse of dull plastic but more upmarket models get a leather steering wheel and a metal-effect centre console. Build quality is good though with no squeaks or rattles while the switches feel fairly robust. The steering wheel can be adapted for height and reach, while the seat has height adjustment as standard. Visibility is good and the cabin is quite airy.