Should you buy one?

You can’t pick many faults with Hyundai i30. The most basic model isn’t particularly exciting to drive and the rear bench doesn’t fold completely flat, which is a little frustrating. But this is offset by its predictable handling, generous standard equipment and enviable reliability record. Overall, it’s an appealing package – but one that’s outshone by a few of its hatchback rivals. Not least, the Kia Ceed – an almost identical car mechanically, but with a longer warranty.

Sadly, it’s quite easy to overlook the i30. The family hatchback market is crowded, and the Hyundai’s slightly anonymous styling and conventional interior means it doesn’t leap out at you. Don’t be fooled by the Volkswagen Golf or SEAT Leon’s gimmicky touch-sensitive climate controls, though – they look cool, but they’re a nuisance to live with day-to-day.

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If you’re looking for thrills, you can find them in the i30 N hot hatchback. It’s 280hp 2.0-litre engine is properly fast and its suspension system is good enough to keep up with (if not run rings around) the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Skoda Octavia vRS.

What we like

The Hyundai i30 has a lot going for it. It’s predictable in the bends, comfortable, economical, reliable and good value for money. It also has a big boot and a competitive five-year warranty, which lags only behind Kia’s seven-year deal and Toyota’s industry-leading 10-year package. The i30 N will set your pulse racing, too.

What we don’t like

The rear bench is a little tight on space. We’re also not sure about the N Line model’s target audience. The ride is too harsh to appeal to average buyers, but the engine isn’t potent enough to appeal to petrolheads. Hyundai doesn’t offer a plug-in hybrid model either, which might push company car buyers towards to likes of the Golf and the Octavia.

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