Hyundai i30 Wagon Review

Design and Engineering

Design and Engineering

 Good

Based off the i30 Hatch the CW (Crossover Wagon) has a 50mm longer wheelbase and a longer rear overhang for increased passenger space and cargo carrying capacity. Whilst it arrived Down Under in March 2009, a year and a half after the hatch, the wait was worth it as we think the longer roofline suits the i30’s frontal styling more so than the shorter hatch.

October 2010 saw the arrival of a very minor cosmetic update in the form of black headlamp bezels and a silver (previously grey) finish to the roof rails (expect more significant changes in 2011 when the mid-life facelift arrives).
Not so good

A small family wagon just isn’t as fashionable as a compact SUV to the majority of Australians; however we see real merit in the design (and result) of the i30 CW.
Interior and Styling

Interior and Styling

 Good

It’s got a modern-looking dash design with soft touch quality plastics (for this price anyway!) The front seats are supportive, the iPod dock is quite clever and the storage compartments are plentiful. The i30 Wagon’s stretched wheelbase generates extra rear space; legroom is now very generous. Likewise, the body is almost 250mm longer so rear cargo space (with the second row seats up) grows by 75L over the hatch. The second row seats fold (almost) completely flat so carrying a surfboard or a couple of mountain bikes inside isn’t an issue.

October 2010 tech change see's Bluetooth connectivity fitted as standard on all grades as well a follow-home headlight function. The other update was a one-touch triple turn signal for the SLX grade.
Not so good

Base grade SX’s excessive grey trim makes for a dull looking interior. It’s a small family wagon so don’t think three large adults will be truly comfortable sitting next to each other in the rear (depending on the family, depends on how often this happens?)
Performance

Performance

 Good

Punchy 1.6L Turbo Diesel is an excellent choice for those who do lots of driving; not only is it relatively powerful, it’s also very economical. The 2.0L Petrol also has adequate power, and don’t worry that it’s a 4-speed and not a 5-speed auto as it’s still quite a capable transmission.
Not so good

Petrol engine is too noisy and lacks torque. At high revs the Turbo Diesel can also be a bit noisy.
Ride and Handling

Ride and Handling

 Good

The competent, comfortable ride & handling is better than a number of it’s competitors. The extended wheelbase (over the hatch) see’s a noticeable ride improvement – in fact, very few compact SUV’s ride this well. The Hyundai ABS is well tuned for varied Australian conditions…
Not so good

When pushed too hard, the base grade SX will let you know it’s no sports car with the front wheels pushing wide (understeering) in a corner; although it’s no surprise considering the excellent low pricing and wagon bodystyle. ESP not so well tuned.
Buying and Owning

Buying and Owning

 Good

Excellent value for money - even the entry grade SX comes with all the critical safety features and a number of luxuries (such as a chilled glovebox and six-stacker sound system) as standard.
Not so good

No separate airvents for the kiddies in the second row. The the i30 CW wagon weighs more than the hatch and the popular petrol & auto transmission combo provides only average real world fuel economy.