CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 300
Average Price: Around £6,500

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), the second generation of Hyundai's mid-sized hatchback, is a well-built family car that rivals the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra, and Kia Ceed. Available as a five-door hatchback, three-door hatchback, and estate (Tourer), it represents a significant step upmarket for the brand. The i30 offers excellent practicality with a 378-litre boot (extending to 1,316 litres with seats folded) and a well-designed cabin featuring plenty of storage and comfortable seating. A subtle 2015 facelift brought revised engines, equipment upgrades, and a sportier Turbo variant with 183bhp, though this warm hatch lacks the engagement of a true hot hatch.

To drive, the i30 is composed and refined, though less engaging than the Ford Focus. It excels at ease-of-use with light controls and predictable handling, making it ideal for daily duties. Engine options include 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrols and diesels, with the 1.6-litre CRDi diesel offering excellent economy at 74.3mpg officially. The 2015 facelift introduced a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with improved fuel economy. Running costs are low, with insurance groups ranging from 6 to 13, and servicing around £230 for a full service at a Hyundai dealer. The i30 received a five-star EuroNCAP rating, though it lacks modern advanced driver aids. As a used car, it represents excellent value for budget-conscious families seeking practicality and reliability.

Best for: Families seeking a practical, well-equipped hatchback or estate, budget-conscious buyers prioritising value and low running costs, and those wanting a composed, stress-free daily driver.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising engaging handling and driving fun, those seeking a hot hatch version, or buyers wanting the latest advanced driver assistance systems.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the i30 if: You're seeking a practical, well-equipped family hatchback or estate, prioritising value and low running costs, or wanting a composed, stress-free daily driver.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise engaging handling and driving fun, want a hot hatch version, or require the latest advanced driver assistance systems.

Competitive Position: The Hyundai i30 (2012-2017) is a strong all-rounder in the family hatchback segment, offering excellent practicality, generous standard equipment, and economical engines. Whilst the Ford Focus edges ahead for driving dynamics and the Kia Ceed offers a longer warranty, the i30 delivers outstanding value for money. Its well-built cabin, spacious interior, and low running costs make it an exceptionally sensible choice for families and commuters. The estate variant provides even greater practicality, whilst the rare Turbo model offers a warm hatch alternative, though neither matches true hot hatch excitement.

Read our full Hyundai i30 Review

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