Hyundai calls its i30 the DNA car and this new third-generation family hatchback, and forthcoming estate, takes the brand to the next level, says motoring editor Andy Russell.

Norwich Evening News: Third-generation Hyundai i30 is one of the most stylish superminis. Picture: HyundaiThird-generation Hyundai i30 is one of the most stylish superminis. Picture: Hyundai (Image: Hyundai)

People frequently ask what I think about certain models or recommend they look at. It's a chance to open their eyes to marques they would probably not have considered and buying one actually sells them the brand.

It's like 20 questions. Asking about annual mileage sorts out the diesel/petrol/electric debate. Then we whittle it down through estates, hatches, SUVs etc to specific makes and models.

Most want something that is sensible, reliable that will take the family comfortably, has some creature comforts and gives peace-of-mind motoring without busting the budget to acquire or run.

It's hard nowadays not to steer them towards taking a look or test drive of brands like Hyundai which, with a range from city cars to big 4x4s, meets many demands.

It's a line-up constantly evolving, so youthful, and the latest relaunch is the i30 hatch, followed now by Tourer estate.

Norwich Evening News: Hyundai i30 is marque's 'DNA' car. Picture: HyundaiHyundai i30 is marque's 'DNA' car. Picture: Hyundai (Image: Hyundai)

Looks and image

Hyundai has built its success in Europe with the i30 – its 'DNA car' for the family – and this third-generation model takes the look to a new level, launching the new 'cascading grille'.

Hyundais used to sell purely on price, now design is priority with customers so the new model looks the part as one of the most stylish compact family hatchs.

Hyundai has also taken on board customer needs with the latest connectivity technology and naturally-aspirated petrol engines make way for more efficient turbo units.

Norwich Evening News: Driving position has plenty of adjustment. Picture: HyundaiDriving position has plenty of adjustment. Picture: Hyundai (Image: Hyundai)

Under the bonnet

The simple engine line-up sees the old 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol engines replaced with 120PS three-cylinder 1.0-litre and 140PS four-cylinder 1.4-litre turbo units, alongside the 110PS 1.6-litre turbo diesel. The more powerful petrol engine and diesel are also available with a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

The newest engine is the 1.4-litre turbo petrol which will appeal to buyers moving away from diesel power.

It needs a few revs to be lively, feeling flat in too high a gear, but the shift is slick and this refined engine isn't scared of being worked. Above, 3,000rpm it's brisk and willing with a good turn of pace but still returned 43mpg in mixed driving.

Norwich Evening News: Passengers will find decent legroom in the back of the Hyundai i30. Picture: HyundaiPassengers will find decent legroom in the back of the Hyundai i30. Picture: Hyundai (Image: Hyundai)

How it drives

A new chassis, more direct steering and a highly-rigid body are key ingredients for the improved driving manners.

Let's be honest, most owners want a car that's comfortable and corners confidently, rather than a sharp, sporty steer, so this i30 really ticks the boxes.

The supple ride does a decent job of ironing out rough roads, the biggest niggle being noticeable tyre noise but it's quieter on smoother surfaces.

Norwich Evening News: Hyundai i30's 395-litre boot is one of the biggest in the class. Picture: HyundaiHyundai i30's 395-litre boot is one of the biggest in the class. Picture: Hyundai (Image: Hyundai)

No issues with the handling either, tackling twists and turn competently with good grip and body control. The tweaked steering makes light work of getting in and out of parking spaces but is well weighted at speed.

Space and comfort

The i30 is roomy, light and airy inside with decent headroom and good rear legroom, even with adults up front. A small transmission hump in the floor shouldn't trouble a middle passenger in the back.

The 395-litre boot is bigger than most models in this class and well shaped. A two-level floor panel adds to the practicality but, even in the highest position, sits below the load sill but level with the 60/40 split rear seats backs when folded down, raising total volume to 1,301 litres.

Norwich Evening News: New Hyundai i30 debuts the new 'cascading grille'. Picture: HyundaiNew Hyundai i30 debuts the new 'cascading grille'. Picture: Hyundai (Image: Hyundai)

At the wheel

There's plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment to tailor the driving position, whether short or tall, and the clear instrument binnacle and sensible switchgear add to the ease of driving.

You'll quickly get to grips with the touchscreen perched on top of the fascia – it's clear to see and easy to use.

Final say

Hyundai has come a long way in a relatively short time and shows no signs of resting on its laurels. This third-generation i30 heralds the next chapter in the brand's success story and it's hard not to make a case for, or come away liking, this attractive all-round package.

SPEC AND TECH

Price: Hyundai i30 Premium 1.4 T-GDi £22,195 (range from £16,995 to £24,745)

Engine: 1,353cc, 140PS, four-cylinder turbo petrol

Performance: 0-62mph 8.9 seconds; top speed 130mph

MPG: Urban 42.8; extra urban 58.9; combined 52.3

CO2 emissions: 124g/km

Benefit-in-kind tax rate: 23%

Insurance group: 15 (out of 50)

Warranty: Five year, unlimited mileage

Will it fit in the garage? L 4,340mm; W 1,795mm (excluding door mirrors); H 1,455mm