Used Hyundai i30 for sale nearChelmsford

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 300
Average Price: Around £6,200

Hyundai i30 (2012-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Roomy and practical, especially the estate	Not as much fun to drive as a Ford Focus
Long list of standard kit on most models	Entry-level diesel is a bit weedy
Economical diesel engines	No hot hatch version

Quick Summary

The Hyundai i30 (2012-2017), known as the second generation, is a well-built and practical mid-sized family hatchback that rivals established names like the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra. Available as a five-door hatchback, three-door hatchback, or i30 Tourer estate, it represents a significant step upmarket for Hyundai. The cabin is nicely designed with excellent practicality, offering a 378-litre boot (extending to 1,316 litres with rear seats folded) on hatchbacks, or 528 litres on the Tourer (1,642 litres extended). A subtle 2015 facelift brought revised engines, equipment upgrades, and a more advanced infotainment system, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain absent.

To drive, the i30 is composed and refined, though it lacks the engaging character of the Ford Focus. The entry-level 1.4-litre petrol engine feels underpowered; the 1.6-litre petrol is more suitable. Diesel options, particularly the 1.6 CRDi with 108bhp or 126bhp, offer excellent fuel economy (up to 74.3mpg officially) and lower running costs. The rare 2015 Turbo model delivers 183bhp for a warmer hatch experience. Insurance groups range from 6 to 13, and servicing costs are reasonable. With a five-star EuroNCAP rating and Hyundai's excellent warranty, the i30 is a sensible, capable all-rounder for families prioritising practicality and value over driving excitement.

Best for: Families seeking a practical, well-equipped hatchback or estate, budget-conscious buyers wanting low running costs, and those valuing Hyundai's excellent warranty and standard equipment.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising engaging handling and driving fun, or those seeking a genuine hot hatch variant.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the i30 if: You're seeking a practical, well-equipped family hatchback or estate with low running costs, value Hyundai's excellent warranty, and prioritise sensible all-round capability over driving excitement.

Consider alternatives if: You want engaging handling and driving fun, or require a genuine hot hatch variant.

Competitive Position: The Hyundai i30 (2012-2017) is a strong contender in the used family hatchback market, offering excellent practicality, generous standard equipment, and competitive pricing. Whilst the Ford Focus delivers superior driving dynamics and the Vauxhall Astra offers more deals, the i30 stands out for its refinement, spaciousness, and economical diesel engines. The Kia Ceed provides a seven-year warranty, but the i30 remains a highly capable all-rounder for families prioritising value and practicality. Its well-built cabin and low running costs make it an intelligent choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Read our full Hyundai i30 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.