Hyundai pulled the wraps off its all-new i30 in Frankfurt yesterday (September 5), one week prior to the model's official unveiling at the same city's motor show.
The Korean firm's latest C-segment hatchback borrows much of its body language from the just-launched Hyundai i40. More distinctive and 'fluid' than its predecessor, the i30 boasts a large, hexagonal grille and a raked windscreen and roof.
It's marginally bigger than the car it replaces and features swelled wheelarches, LED daytime running lights and wraparound taillights.
There's also more than a hint of i40 about the interior. Quality materials and a near identical dash are complemented by generous rear legroom and a 378-litre boot - ten percent larger than that of the previous Hyundai i30.
Due on sale in the first quarter of next year, the i30 is expected to have a choice of six engines - three petrol and three diesel. Power outputs are likely to range from 89- to 133bhp and there will be a super frugal i30 Blue. This will be powered by a revised version of Hyundai's 1.6-litre diesel engine with the potential for 126bhp and sub-100g/km emissions.
More efficient engines are a given, so running costs will be lower as a result. Extensive safety features mean that Hyundai is expecting a five-star Euro NCAP rating and lower insurance costs than the current i30 as a result.
Specification is expected to be generous, with dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof likely on mid-spec models. The i30 will only be available as a five-door hatchback from launch but the likelihood is that a three-door variant will follow later on. Hyundai is adamant that there is no chance of a performance flagship model, though.
Jack Carfrae - 7 Sep 2011