| HYUNDAI i30 SX, $22,390 |
Driveline:
2.0-litre four cylinder, 4-spd auto |
 |
Fuel economy:
6.5L/100km; ULP |
Safety Features:
ESC, DFSA, HAB, ABS, BA, EBD |
ANCAP:
5 stars |
GVG:
5 stars |
2010 signals a hat-trick of Australia’s Best Car’s Awards for Hyundai’s i30 small car.
That’s not surprising when you consider the i30 is the best car from the Korean maker’s stable to date.
It hit our shores at the end of 2007 as a replacement for the ageing Elantra. It was such a huge step up for the maker in design, quality and driveability that is was not long before the new model started bagging awards. In 2008 and 2009, the i30 was crowned Best Mid-Sized Car under $30,000.
This year the i30 took out the new Best Small Car Under $35,000 category.
Last year the diesel version stood on the winner’s podium, while in 2008 it was the petrol model . This year the petrol model again reigns.
Like the baby i20, the i30 offers a value-for-money proposition that is critical in this price-sensitive end of the market.
Due to the change in the class structures, the Hyundai faced some stiff competition as it was head-to-head with last year’s Best Mid-Sized Car over $30,000, the Volkswagen Golf.
But the i30 ended up on the top of the podium, boosted by its excellent price equation. It scored seven and above in every criterion except standard features, an achievement none of the other finalists could boast.
While it was no match for either Honda Civic or the Golf on the road, it was a still a solid performer, scoring sevens for performance, handling, braking and smoothness and quietness. The soft suspension made for a comfortable ride.
Step inside, and the cabin is larger than you’d expect from a car with the i30’s dimensions. The seats are comfortable and supportive. The i30’s ergonomics rate well, with simple, logical controls all within reach of the driver. Bluetooth, full iPod integration and steering wheel controls for the audio and cruise make life even easier behind the wheel. Despite being a few years old now, the i30’s interior styling is still fresh.
Height and reach-adjustable steering allows for a comfortable driving position. Rear seat passengers have plenty of room with good head and leg space. The rear seats split-fold and the boot is a good size.
A five-star ANCAP safety rating and a plethora of standard safety equipment, including six airbags, ESC, ABS, pretensioners and load limiters on the front seatbelts, driver and front passenger anti-whiplash head restraints and height-adjustable head restraints for all occupants mean the i30 also scores well in safety.
Improvement in build quality across the board from Hyundai has been a priority for some years, and that is evident with the i30, which scores highly against cars that are more expensive.
With a third title under its belt, the i30 really is the king of its class.