Photo by Gift Habeshaw 🇪🇹 on Pexels
About the Hyundai i30
AI-generatedThe Hyundai i30 is a popular family hatchback that has been a mainstay in the UK market since 2007. Now in its third generation (launched 2017), the i30 competes directly with the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Vauxhall Astra. It offers a compelling package of generous equipment levels, a comprehensive warranty, competitive pricing, and a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines. The i30 is also available as a practical Tourer estate variant and a hot hatch N performance model. Hyundai has built a strong reputation for reliability and value, and the i30 exemplifies this approach. With spacious interiors, comfortable ride quality, and low running costs, it's an excellent choice for families and company car drivers alike. The second generation (2012-2017) brought significant improvements in quality and refinement, while the current third generation (2017-present) elevated the i30 to genuinely compete with European rivals in terms of driving dynamics and interior finish. All models benefit from Hyundai's impressive 5-year unlimited mileage warranty when bought new.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation (PD)
2007-2012
- Dual mass flywheel failures on diesel models, causing vibration and clutch issues
- Front suspension bushes wearing prematurely, leading to knocking noises
- Rear wheel bearings prone to failure, especially on higher mileage examples
- Headlight condensation issues due to poor sealing
- Dashboard rattles and interior trim quality concerns
Second Generation (GD)
2012-2017
- Dual clutch automatic gearbox problems, including jerky changes and overheating
- DPF issues on diesel models, particularly with short journey driving patterns
- Turbocharger failures on 1.6 CRDi diesel engines around 60,000-80,000 miles
- Electric power steering faults causing warning lights and loss of assistance
- Boot lid lock mechanism failures requiring replacement
Third Generation (PD)
Photo by Erik Mclean on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,400-£1,800
Insurance Group
10-20
Average Service
£300-£450
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£16,000 - £21,000
£12,000 - £16,500
£9,000 - £13,000
£4,500 - £7,500
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent 5-year unlimited mileage warranty providing comprehensive peace of mind
- Generous standard equipment levels across all trim grades
- Spacious interior with good rear legroom and boot space
- Low running costs with efficient engines and affordable servicing
- Comfortable ride quality suitable for family use
- Good build quality and improved interior materials in third generation
Cons
- DCT automatic gearbox can be jerky and problematic
Photo by Velroy Fernandes on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - Third generation model with refined engines, improved interior quality, comprehensive safety features, and manufacturer software updates addressing early DCT issues
- 2020 - Benefits from mid-cycle facelift with updated styling, improved infotainment system with larger touchscreen, and enhanced safety equipment as standard
- 2018 - First full year of third generation production with most launch issues resolved, still offering good value with plenty of warranty remaining on used examples
Worst Years
- 2012 - Early second generation cars suffered teething problems with the new DCT gearbox and some build quality inconsistencies during the production transition
- 2015 - Mid-generation models experienced the highest incidence of turbocharger failures on 1.6 CRDi engines and ongoing DCT transmission problems
- 2008 - First generation model with widespread dual mass flywheel issues on diesels and inferior interior quality compared to later versions
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for oil leaks around the rocker cover and sump
- Listen for turbocharger whine or excessive noise on diesel models
- Ensure engine starts cleanly without excessive smoke on diesels
- Check cambelt/chain service history has been completed on schedule
- Look for DPF warning lights on diesel models
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The i30 N is Hyundai's first proper hot hatch and was developed at the Nürburgring, sharing technology with rally and touring car programmes.
The i30 name refers to its positioning as an international model with 30 representing the C-segment hatchback classification.
Hyundai's UK manufacturing plant in Sunderland has never produced the i30, despite it being a key European market - all i30s are built in the Czech Republic.
The second generation i30 was the first Hyundai to be designed entirely at the company's European design centre in Germany.
Alternatives to Consider
Ford Focus
7/10More engaging to drive with better handling dynamics, excellent petrol engines, and stronger residual values in the UK market
Volkswagen Golf
7/10Premium feel with superior interior quality, better resale values, and more refined overall experience, though more expensive to buy
Kia Ceed
8/10Sister car sharing many components with identical 7-year warranty, similar reliability, and often better value for money
Owner Tips
- 1Avoid DCT automatic gearboxes if possible - the manual is more reliable and cheaper to maintain
- 2Diesel models need regular longer runs to regenerate the DPF - avoid if you mainly do short urban journeys
- 3Check service history carefully and ensure the cambelt or chain has been replaced at recommended intervals
- 4The 1.0 T-GDi petrol engine offers the best balance of performance and economy for most drivers
- 5Ensure software updates have been applied to infotainment and DCT gearbox systems on 2017-2019 models
- 6Use Hyundai approved parts and servicing to maintain warranty validity, especially in the first five years
- 7Check for parking sensor faults during test drives and inspect for paint chips on the bonnet and front wings
- 8The SE Nav trim offers the best value with good equipment levels without excessive depreciation
Check a specific Hyundai i30
Enter a registration number to see MOT history, tax status and more
