A few days ago Luxsure tested the new-generation Hyundai i30 range: 3-door, 5-door, Sport Wagon. Officially unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the New i30 3-door marks Hyundai’s determination to offer motorists a complete range. Following the launch of the 5-door sedan in early 2012 and the Sport Wagon estate version last summer, the arrival of this sporty variant, designed and produced in Europe, further strengthens Hyundai’s presence in the C segment, one of the most competitive in the automotive industry, particularly in Europe.
A short stroll around Epernay and a visit to the Vranken-Pommery cellars.
The new i30, made in Europe, is at the cutting edge of innovation in design, style, safety, technology, driver feedback, environmental performance and that indefinable appeal that is the hallmark
of great cars.
Design:
The New i30 is an eye-catcher, with dynamic exterior lines and a refined interior. Inside and out, the i30 embodies the latest evolution of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” styling language, which blends flowing lines and avant-garde design to create a striking statement. From the outside, the car appears to be always on the move, with its bold, confident stance. The car’s sporty character is reinforced by the extra-wide wheel arches, with the chassis just 5 mm wider than its predecessor. The windscreen has also been modified, for a Cx of just 0.30 that promotes fuel economy and interior refinement. In addition to its pleasant ambience, the interior of the New i30 is also highly sophisticated. Materials are soft to the touch, colors carefully chosen to reinforce the cabin’s serene ambience, and ergonomics are particularly meticulous.
Environment :
Environmental excellence is also reflected in the i30 New Generation’s powertrains, with a six-speed transmission as standard and CO2 emissions reduced to 97 g/km. Several models carry Hyundai’s Blue DriveTM eco-label, available on CRDi 110 versions featuring Idle Stop and Go (ISG), low rolling resistance tires and an alternator management system.
Safety:
Hyundai wanted the i30 New Generation to meet or exceed the best safety levels recorded in Europe’s C-segment. Both the sedan and the Sport Wagon model have been awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety crash test. The three-door version offers the same levels of safety.
The new three-door:
Hyundai’s i30 New Generation range has been expanded, adding to the two previous models (five-door and Sport Wagon)
the first three-door version “designed for Europe”. Although the launch of the three models was staggered over the course of 2012, the cars were designed at the same time, to maintain the same stylistic spirit. The New Sport Wagon (30% of European sales of the i30 New Generation) boasts the same elegance as the five-door hatchback, while offering a spacious boot. The 528-liter load volume rises to 1,642 liters with the rear seats folded. Its new line starts at the B-pillar, but the overall design retains the Marque’s identity links. Designers have carefully avoided making the rear of the car too utilitarian; the tailgate opens at bumper level to facilitate loading, while the rear window extends to the D-pillars, multiplying the impression
of space while improving rear visibility for the driver. Emotional and dynamic, the hatchback on the
three-door version emphasizes elegance and sportiness, while displaying a family air. Although it currently accounts for only 10% of sales in Europe, the New i30 Sport Wagon is the fruit of Hyundai’s determination to position itself in a highly competitive segment. It also raises awareness of the Brand among European consumers.
Always top-of-the-range equipment:
The New i30 offers customers top-of-the-range equipment. One such innovation is the FLEX STEER system, which allows the driver to vary the degree of steering assistance and responsiveness according to driving conditions Comfort, Normal or Sport, an option usually reserved for luxury cars. The driver can also take advantage of the touch-sensitive navigation screen, which meets the same high standards as that of the D-segment i40, plus a host of additional high-resolution information, not to mention the intelligent parking assistance system. As for the list of
comfort features inside the New i30, it’s just as impressive, with dual-zone air conditioning and numerous versatile storage compartments. The panoramic sunroof floods the spacious cabin with natural light and fresh air. But the i30’s other major asset is Hyundai’s exclusive “Triple 5” Warranty. Last but not least, Hyundai is introducing job loss insurance as standard for all its cars, at no extra cost.
Cette publication est également disponible en : Français (French)
