The sleek looking Hyundai i30 family hatchback has been fitted with a new 48V mild-hybrid architecture as part of the Hyundai's mid-life refresh.
The idea of a 48V integrated starter-generator will be a familiar one to many by now, and its application here is unsurprisingly intended to help the i30 achieve very modest savings in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
That electrified architecture is based around one of two petrol engines: a 118bhp 1.0-litre turbo three-pot or a new 1.5-litre 158bhp turbo four-cylinder, tested here in left-hand-drive, pre-production guise. In the UK, this range-topping engine will be paired exclusively with Hyundai’s N Line trim level.
Speaking of N Line, this pseudo-sporting trim level has been subjected to a bit of a nip-and-tuck, too. A larger grille, sharper bumpers and a revamped headlight design all feature, all contributing to a noticeably more sporting image than what you got on the original i30 N Line. It’s still not quite as pumped up as the full-fat Hyundai i30 N hot hatch, but it’s not a bad-looking thing, either.
The i30's suspension and steering have both been slightly tweaked too, provided you go for the 1.5-litre petrol engine.
For a range-topping engine, there isn’t really all that much punch on offer here. Press the throttle and after a slight delay the i30 begins to accrue pace, but power delivery never feels that urgent and can come across as slightly boosty at times. At least the engine sounds smooth, but its lack of performance is a telling reminder that the N Line model is more of a shower than a goer.
In any case, the 153bhp 1.0-litre three-pot you get in the Ford Focus ST-Line not only feels considerably punchier but is also a more genuinely characterful engine.
It’s the Ford that’s the sweeter handling of the two, too. The i30 might just edge it when it comes to ride comfort, but the Focus is certainly the more entertaining car to bomb around in. Compared with the Hyundai’s nicely assisted but slightly dead helm, the Focus just feels that much more alive in your hands and that much more willing to respond keenly to your inputs.
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Hyundai have certainly made the front look much better.
I think Hyundai are foing good and this is no doubt a lovely car to drive. I would have it over a dull Golf.
Hyundai have certainly made the front look much better.
I think Hyundai are foing good and this is no doubt a lovely car to drive. I would have it over a dull Golf.
What to believe eh?
According to a rival weekly publication this new i30 1.5 engine is punchy with plenty of low to mid range shove. I suppose it just shows that the only road test that matters is the one you do yourself! I was impressed with the existing N line when I tried one, just a shame we don't get the tourer as an N line for the UK.