Hatchback, wagon or fastback? Find your Hyundai i30 match

By motoring expert, Lynn Tan

If the styling of the new-generation Hyundai i30 comes across as somewhat European despite its Korean DNA, that is because it is indeed designed, developed, tested and manufactured in Europe.

The third generation i30 range debuted in Singapore with the five-door hatchback variant, and is now joined by a wagon and most recently, a fastback coupe.

Lightweight, but packs a punch

All three body types share the same brand new 1,353 cc four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. With a weight-saving of 14 kg over the previous generation engine, the new lightweight downsized block also delivers more power (138 bhp@6,000rpm), better low-end torque (242Nm@1,500rpm), quicker throttle response time and greater fuel efficiency (5.5l/100km).

The use of 53 percent Advanced High-Strength Steel accounts for the i30’s strong and lightweight body. Together with a new chassis and fine-tuned steering, these contribute significantly to its dynamic drive, agile handling, comfortable ride and occupant safety.

All good stuff

The i30 models come with a comprehensive list of equipment and features that offer excellent value-for-money.

Keyless entry and push-button Start/Stop are standard, along with a wireless Smartphone charger and front and rear recording cameras. Drive Mode Select allows the driver the option of choosing Eco, Comfort or Sport mode.

Other features such as the fully-automatic dual-zone climate control, rear console air vents, auto cruise control and LED Daytime Running Lamps convey a premium feel that lives up to its European influence.

Hyundai Smart Sense systems such as the Anti-Lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Programme, Hill Start Assist Control and Rear View Camera with dynamic guideline ensure that safety is not compromised.

The new face of Hyundai

All these are brought together in an irresistibly stylish package that reflects an evolution of Hyundai’s design language, one that is timeless, yet striking.

The front Cascading Grille, in particular, is an all-new design element that defines the new family identity for upcoming Hyundai models.

A match made in Hyundai

• Body style

  The hatchback’s sporty look fits right in with its label as the rebel of the family. If you can identify with this personality trait, then this fun-to-drive i30 may be the one for you.

  
  (Editorial credit: VanderWolf Images / Shutterstock.com)

  The wagon combines the timelessness and elegance of the i30 with the versatile form and function of a wagon, perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.

  
  (Editorial credit: Grzegorz Czapski / Shutterstock.com)

  The fastback is a five-door coupe that further accentuates the style and stance of the i30. If you can’t take your eyes off that characteristic teardrop profile, you know your heart has made its choice.

  
  (Editorial credit: VanderWolf Images / Shutterstock.com)

• Space

  We do not always have the luxury of simply going with our heart or buying a car based on appearances alone. Sometimes, it still boils down to space and other practical considerations.

  Even though the hatchback offers space and comfort that belies its compact size, the wagon is undoubtedly the most spacious model in the i30 line-up.

  It offers one of the largest boot capacity in its segment- up to 1,650 litres with the seats folded, compared to the hatchback and fastback’s 1,301 litres and 1,351 litres respectively.

  The wagon’s versatility is enhanced by additional storage space underneath the boot floor, which is excellent for smaller items.

  The wagon also has a generous cabin space, with the most front and rear headroom among the three.

• Fuel efficiency

  If fuel economy is your thing, then you will be better off with either the hatchback or wagon. These two consume 5.5l/100km, compared to their sibling’s 6.4l/100km.

• Price
  

  Based on the COE Open Bidding Exercise that ended on 8 November 2018, the prices for the three variants are as follows:

  - i30 Hatchback: S$109,999
  - i30 Wagon: S$116,999
  - i30 Fastback: S$121,999
  
  They may share the same engine and a standard list of equipment, but the pricier fastback comes with the following additional equipment:
  
  - rear spoiler integrated into tailgate
  - full LED headlamps
  - 17-inch alloy wheels
  - paddle shifters
  - electric driver’s seat
  - larger front disc brakes
  - eight-inch display with Apple Carplay compatibility

The biggest draw of the Hyundai i30 range is that you get European styling and engineering without paying too much of a premium price tag.

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