The Hyundai i30 doesn’t have the sharpest looks when compared with rivals including the Mazda 3, and VW Golf, even in the facelifted form shown here, but does offer great value for money along with a decent interior and surprisingly enjoyable handling and steering.
The entry-level 1.6 diesel costs £13,795, and for 90hp doesn’t disappoint on acceleration. As the most eco-friendly of the i30 range, it now emits 115g/km, or with a £200 ISG option, 110g/km, meaning it falls in the lowest BIK band of 13%.
Against the Mazda 3, the i30 wins on price. Mazda doesn’t offer an entry-level trim diesel – its one-from-bottom TS 1.6 diesel costs £16,540 – while the 1.6 petrol is £14,230, still £435 more than the i30, which has a WLC of 35.7p per mile compared with the pricier diesel 3’s 40.3ppm.
For those willing to try budget brands and non-headturning looks, the i30’s a serious contender.
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