MELBOURNE: Hyundai has updated the popular i30 by giving it a fresh look, adding more features, and shaking up the model names. The diesel option also welcomes a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, as well as an increase in output.
Five models now feature in the lineup; Active, ActiveX, SR, SR Premium, and Premium. From the front, the i30 Series II boasts a deeper, more assertive front grille that more closely aligns it with its “upmarket, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0-designed Sonata and Genesis stable mates”.
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The i30 Series II boasts a deeper, more assertive front grille that more closely aligns it with its upmarket, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0-designed Sonata and Genesis stable mates.
Interior changes include the addition in entry-level i30 Series II Active of a new 5-inch touchscreen audio system with benchmark connectivity and compatibility options, including Pandora® internet radio, Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary input, iPod and MP3.
Ventilated front seats have been added to the extensive list of standard equipment in i30 Series II SR Premium and Premium variants.
A rear-view camera now combines with four-sensor rear-parking assist as standard equipment across the i30 Series II range.
Under the bonnet, i30 Series II offers a choice of three engines and three transmissions.
For the first time, a seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission is optional on diesel-engined i30 Series II Active and ActiveX variants and standard on the diesel-only i30 Series II Premium.
i30 Series II also benefits from the extensive suspension and steering development work carried out by Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s respected local tuning team. SR models feature a bespoke sports suspension tune delivering sharp, responsive turn-in and improved handling while retaining the i30’s supple, rounded ride quality.
i30 Series II retains the Hyundai i30’s 5-Star ANCAP safety rating.
A firm favourite with new-car buyers, and Australia’s fourth-bestselling vehicle in 2014, Hyundai’s i30 already boasts an impressive list of accolades including back-to-back winner of the coveted Australia’s Best Cars Best Small-Car Under $35,000 Award (2013 and 2014).
New i30 Series II ActiveX
Series II also introduces an important new i30 variant, the new ActiveX. The new i30 ActiveX delivers even better value-for-money and additional premium features over the Active grade on which it is based.
Like i30 Series II Active, new ActiveX is available either with Hyundai’s Nu 1.8-litre MPI petrol engine (with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission), or U-II 1.6-litre turbo-diesel (with either six-speed manual transmission or 7-speed DCT).
i30 Series II ActiveX additional standard equipment includes sporty, new-design 16-inch alloy wheels with machined-face finish and recessed gunmetal-grey inserts.
Inside, i30 Series II ActiveX boasts standard leather-appointed black trim with premium steering wheel, gearknob, door trims and instrument panel hood.
Other i30 Series II ActiveX interior enhancements include alloy-look door handles, illuminated sun visors, and ambient lighting for the front centre-console storage area, and a driver’s seat back pocket.
STYLING
i30 Series II Active and ActiveX variants new larger hexagonal front grille incorporates black horizontal slats with satin chrome inserts. i30 Series II SR, SR Premium and Premium variants feature gunmetal grey slats with satin chrome inserts.
i30 Series II SR, SR Premium and Premium also now come standard with LED daytime running lights and LED combination tail-lights, in addition SR variants feature a matte-black lower diffuser incorporated into the rear bumper.
SR Premium and Premium variants also feature a distinctive chrome belt-line moulding.
i30 Series II Active variants now wear 16-inch steel wheels with a more upmarket-looking wheel cover design. SR, SR Premium and Premium variants now come standard with new-design gunmetal-grey 17-inch alloy wheels.
INTERIOR
In a Hyundai Motor Company Australia first, the upgraded audio system in i30 Series II Active and ActiveX variants offers Pandora® internet radio capability when tethered with a compatible iOS or Android smartphone. Users are able to interact with the Pandora® app on their smartphone (if installed) via the 5-inch in-dash multimedia display.
In keeping with advances in technology, i30 Series II Active variants no longer feature a CD-player as standard. SR, SR Premium, and Premium variants continue to utilise Hyundai’s impressive 7-inch touchscreen satellite-navigation system with CD-player.