Hyundai i30 GD (2012-2016)

Stay Away i30 GD premium 2012 – 100,000klms, car serviced on time, I bought this because i saw it won car of the year quite a few times, i know why now. For what you pay you get quite a lot of features, however it doesn't mean the car is any good. Suspension is bad, steering feels loose, the car just feels loose all around, not solid like a honda, toyota etc. Feels el cheapo… Read more

Within the 5 years the steering wheel leather went, covered by warranty. Accelerated a little hard, bue white blueish smoke, EC module changed, covered under warranty. After 5 years, electric handbrake went $600, steering wheel issue $600, sunroof curtain clip broke for no reason $2300 fix ( did not fix), car makes clicking sound when starting to Accelerate or braking, oil in throttle body (not fixed) traded car as is. READ reviews and very common for the entire motor to go and need changing $9500, seroiously do yourself a favour and stay away. Sister in law, same car except 2014 model, engine went 90,000klms

Hyundai i30 2013 130,000kms. Catastrophic engine failure – Hyundai i30 2013 130,000kms. Serviced at Hyundai dealership on time everytime. Experienced catastrophic engine failure. Apparently very common. Heroe to zero. Show details

i30 2014 - Engine failure – Vehicle regularly serviced (6 monthly - never reach the log book kilometers) with the dealer from whom I purchased. Just 3773 kilometers from last major service without any indications of fault - total engine failure. Repairs $8,650 Show details

Has its good and bad points – I wanted to purchase a small hatchback and had a budget of about $15k. I test drove a 2014 Hyundai i30, Mazda 3 and Toyota Corolla (and ruled out other options for various reasons). The Mazda 3 would have been my pick of the bunch, but I couldn't live with the huge amount of tyre noise in the cabin. Rear seat legroom is also very cramped. The… Read more

Corolla would have been my second choice, but my experience driving one of these long distance (as a rental car) is the driver's seat provides no lumbar support and my back will ache after about two hours behind the wheel. That left the i30. I bought a 2014 model, with 34,000km on the clock, in a private sale. After nine months of ownership, what follows is my list of pros and cons.

Pros: (1) The locally tuned suspension provides superb handling. (2) The car feels well planted on the road. (3) The engine has good power for a 1.8, albeit high up in the rev range. (4) The six-speed auto is very smooth and always chooses the right gear. It also downshifts automatically as you slow down. (5) Build quality is excellent, i.e. no squeaks or rattles; the dashboard and door trim are made from soft touch materials; the doors feel heavy and close with a solid thunk. (6) The seats are supremely comfortable and provide excellent back support on long journeys. (7) Excellent all-round visibility from the driver's seat. (8) I like that it doesn't have that annoying stop-start feature that many cars have these days, or a direct injection engine that will suffer from carbon build-up.

Cons: (1) Low speed ride is a too firm, especially at the rear. Drive over a bumpy railway crossing and the ride from the rear suspension is jarring. (2) The steering ratio is way too low (you have to turn the wheel too much). The Mazda 3 and Corolla have much more direct steering. (3) Tyre noise is on the high side - the Corolla has a quieter cabin. (4) The engine lacks low-down torque, which probably explains the next point. (5) Fuel consumption in city driving is high for this class of car. (6) The driver's seat is too flat (it needs more tilt adjustment), resulting in a lack of thigh support for tall drivers like me. This is the biggest negative point for me and my test drive was too short to identify how big of a problem it is. (7) Ergonomics aren't perfect, e.g. it's a real stretch to reach the power button / volume knob on the stereo, which is on the left-hand side. (8) I'm not sure individual component quality is up to Japanese standards, e.g. the gas struts on my hatchback were getting weak (at 5 years / 34,000km) and my alternator is showing early signs of a potential issue (the headlights and interior light flicker ever so slightly when the engine is at idle - it's barely noticeable, but still). I also had to replace the rubber seal on the driver's door, as it had split. (9) This is specific to my car, but despite it's low mileage and good service history, it sounds like one of the hydraulic valve lash adjusters is leaking down - the problem is intermittent, but I sometimes get a bad case of "lifter tick" and it can take several minutes of driving before it stops. I've tried all the cheap fixes, e.g. oil additives and an engine flush, so will just live with it.

Great little car, a few minor issues however – Traded in a 2015 Ford Focus due to the known transmission issues. Was happy to stick with Ford, however they only offered $10,000 for a car which was not even 2 years old with only 19,000Ks on the clock. Hadn’t even considered an i30, however the value for money was excellent. I purchased an i30 SR which came standard with leather seats, reversing… Read more

camera, climate control, Apple CarPlay, push button start etc. While this is our second family car, it’s comfortable to drive in, even long distance trips. It does use a little more fuel than what I thought it would, however nothing of major concern. I have had a few issues with the car, one being that after a software update on my phone that when using CarPlay music would “clip” and “pop”, to the point where I couldn’t use CarPlay for music and maps. Hyundai said a software update would be released soon for this, however it took nearly a year for this to be done, and in the end I ended up receiving the update from someone off the internet, which fixed the problem right away. Second issue I had was a loud rattle from the dash, which sounded like 2 parts rubbing together. Whenever I went over a speed bump, or a slight dip in the road it sounded like the dash was smashing on the windscreen and about to crack. Took the car to Hyundai and they had it for a whole day and fixed the issue. Seems like part of the dash was rubbing on a pipe which was causing the issue. Haven’t had this noise come back since. Overall it’s a fantastic car, only wished I paid the extra $2000 and had the sunroof installed. Hyundai however were excellent with their trade in on my old Focus, offering $16,000 and with a bit of haggling back and forth, I drove away with only having to pay $10,000 out of pocket for my car, which was $29,000. This also included floor mats, tinted windows, paint protection (which I would never pay for) a full tank of fuel and a $1000 gift card. Looking at trading it in soon for maybe an SUV type of car, and while I don’t like the look of the Kona, a Tuson maybe on the cards.

Love my car!! – Previously had a Getz which I loved but upgraded to an i30 Special Edition, 3 door hatch, 6 speed manual in 2013. Only paid $14,000 as I received a $5,000 trade in for my Getz. This car was made in the Czech Republic and came with quite a few extras that my partner's i30 diesel didn't have, like the Bluetooth automatic answering of your phone.… Read more

It's also a simple procedure to pair other peoples phones with the stereo should you need to do that. Love everything about 'my baby'. She does around 600km to a full tank, is exceptionally quiet to drive. Sometimes my partner comments on whether the engine is actually running. There is plenty of boot space for the shopping and heaps more if you collapse the seats. Came with a spare alloy tyre which was a bonus. Considering it is a 3 door, she has plenty of room in the back for passengers, where my partner's i30 is quite cramped. It is quite a 'wide' car but very easy to park. The only drawback and I mean it's only minor, is that because it's a 2 door, the doors are quite a lot bigger than the average 4 door so I have to be careful when opening the doors and have to warn any passengers that they need to make sure they have enough room to get in and out the car. There is plenty of storage space, a/c in the glove box which I find novel, and good storage under the mat in the hatch. Plus the rear parking sensors are a bonus and such a help. I cannot find one thing to complain about with this car. I am extremely happy with it and if I ever need to buy another car, it will most certainly be an i30.

Never had a problem – I read all the bad reviews for i30's and have to say mine was great. 2.0 litre engine was fine, although I sell my cars when they get to about 50 or 60,000 kms and I service them and keep them in a garage. I had a turbo diesel when they first came out and it was fine too. Had a i40 petrol which was also a great car, better than the i30. Show details

Perfect, Reliable and Economical (2014 SE) – I have owned this little beast since new. I have used it for commuting to and from work, long distance trips and it now my source of income doing Uber. The only big amount of money I have spent is replacing the outdated stereo that didn't have mapping or Android Auto / Apple Carplay and putting 2 new sets of tyres on it. I can't really complain… Read more

about the cost of servicing (just watch out for your local dealership as they try to charge more than is quoted on Hyundai's ownership website) The only two major issues I've had, have been fixed at Hyundai's cost. The steering rack was replaced while in warranty in the first 2 years The Cat Converter was triggering the engine light and was replaced out of warranty as a gesture of goodwill. The car now has 160,000 on the clock and shows no sign of giving up.

Great economy and reliable (1.6 diesel auto) – Currently has 117,000 km on the clock and has been very reliable with no obvious issues. Great diesel engine that gives me an average of 960km per tank. My only gripe is the 7 speed auto transmission could be better matched to the engine- if you almost come to a stop and then accelerate the transmission will stay in 2nd gear and then the engine… Read more

will hesitate due to turbo lag and will be slow to accelerate till the turbo is spinning and produces enough boost- the solution is to avoid putting it in this situation by coming to a complete stop and then accelerating away in first gear which is a much lower gear, a bit annoying but when you understand how it works not hard to avoid. Handles nice (firm) but harsh on rough roads , great brakes and good ergonomics.

engine ticking noise – lemon, my daughter bought 2014 i30 in 2017 with 40000 ks on clock, she does around 15000 ks per year, mainly to work on freeway, has been serviced as per log book, ist problem was the radio didn't work, then back door opener just fell out, but worst of all it has started this ticking noise in the engine, only done 100000ks and she was told she… Read more

need another engine, cost $6500, service people said they would ask hyundai about getting car fixed under goodwill as engine should last more than 100000ks, but they said no, never go near hyundai again

So many problems ☹ – I bought this car brand new in 2014. I get the car serviced regularly. I've had so many problems with it. The radio doesn't work anymore, I just get a screeching noise. I've had to get the muffler replaced as it was rusted out. The air bag system warning light came on so I had to take it to an auto electrician to fix & now the engine is making… Read more

a ticking/banging noise. Mechanic advised it would cost thousands to fix as they need to take apart the engine. He first did a diagnostic check but it did not reveal any faults. I expected more from a car that has less than 100kms on the clock. I won't be buying another Hyundai again !

I30 Junk - After sales service is worse than the car – I purchased the car new. After 2 months it developed creaking noises from the rear. I lost count of the amount of times that I took it back to the dealer. After 4 years of failed attempts for the dealer to try to identify or repair the problem they said they don't know how to fix it and told me to stop bringing the car back. Terrible car. Worse service. Never buy a Hyundai Show details

Reliable, easy transport – Used for city driving, occasional 500+ km trips. Great around town car, excellent turning circle, so easy to park. Good luggage capacity and hatch with folding rear seats means long items, up to 1.8 metres easily fit. Service yearly. Nothing ever gone wrong in 7 years of ownership. Ok for long trips, like all small cars, can be noisy on rough surfaces at 110km. Very happy. Show details

Fantastic Car, Great to Drive – By far the best little car I have driven and owned. Reliable and comfortable. Has all the gadgets you could want and very economical on fuel. Wish I had bought it before buying the new Barina and having to trade it due to ongoing meachanical issues. Show details

Great car and never misses a beat – I use this car to travel to work and home. Also family transport. It never stops. Service it every 10000kms. It is built well, very reliable and very comfortable. Has all the bells and whistles even though it is the base model. . I just replace factory tyres 6 months ago(Bury in mind we are in November 2020 now and I bought it in 2015). I have… Read more

never replaced the factory brake pads as of yet. It doesn't use a drop of oil. I would recommend this car to anyone who want a reliable hatch back. It has a little 1.8 litre petrol engine and a 6 speed automatic.

Long term owner, no regrets! – Have owned my 2016 activex since new and it has been amazing. I have had no mechanical issues with the car, and have been impressed with servicing through Hyundai as each service has been the exact capped cost with no surprises! Had a slight issue early on with carplay/Bluetooth and bad call quality, however this was rectified promptly with a… Read more

software update within the cars system. Car drives beautiful both in the city and country highways, nice and quiet and smooth. Very happy with the car and plan on keeping it (even though when I purchased I intended to upgrade at the 4-5 year mark). Boot is very spacious and the flat fold rear seats have been very handy when moving house and could fit large items such as a TV cabinet and hall table!

The design is nice but it's not a robust car – I liked the design and features, however the car is very tinny any minor impact results in a big damage. I find the quality of steel is not the same as in German or even most Japanese cars. Show details

Would I buy a HYUNDAI i30 again? The answer is NO!!!!! – My auto HYUNDAI i30 was purchased brand new in October 2016 at a Sydney HYUNDAI dealership. At the time of purchasing, the dealer gave me a great deal with window tinting, side rails, mats, & back window sun guard. The mileage on this car is minimal & has been regularly serviced by the Hyundai dealership. I love the car, especially the seating… Read more

which enables you to see over the bonnet, it performs brilliantly on the road, has guts when you need it, etc. BUT, in the period I have owned the car, the list of issues that I have experienced have put me off another purchase for life & all occured after warranty lapsed. 1) 2 (yes, not 1, but 2) auto window drivers side failings. This appears to be a fault that is inherent to this vehicle, because 2 friends of mine who purchased a Hyundai at roughly the same time as I have each experienced one auto window failure. 2) A glitch in the computer system meant fuel levels were not recorded, lights coming on etc. It took Hyundai ages to fix this issue & due to its complexity (didn't know how to fix, my vehicle was first instance, no precedence etc) I was not charged & after angry conversations was grudgingly provided a courtesy vehicle because of the length of time it took to fix. 3) Fuel tank leakage

Love my i30! – I purchased the car in 2013. I was concerned about a smaller car after having had a Magna sedan and a Ford wagon (work car). I need not have worried. It is the best car I have ever had. I love it. It is so roomy, front and especially in the back for passengers' legs. I do short, medium and long trips and it has never let me down. The car is… Read more

serviced yearly. I drive it most days. It is as good as if I had brought it yesterday. Not sure that today's car would match this one! Plenty of boot room. Great fuel economy - 9.5/100KM. Would recommend this car, even for a second car.

Not a single issue. I love my car! – I purchased my Hyundai i30 GD Series II back in 2016 and I haven't had a single issue since. It still runs like it is brand new! The customer service I received from Hyundai when buying my car was amazing and I am so glad I chose this car. I have always kept my services regular and not once have I had any problems. The internal sound recording… Read more

system is my favorite part!! I can record any songs I love on the radio or my phone and listen to them later.

Running good since 2010 – In the beginning, I under estimate Korean car. I bought SLX 2.0L Fuel model that came with leather steering cover and leather gear handle. It's been 9 years still running great. low maintenance service. Big space for luggage. The fuel ratio is around 10/100KM.

Wouldn't drive any other car but my i30 !! – My i30 is dependable, comfortable, speedy, economic on fuel, looks good, mechanically sound and never had a problem with it in over 4 years of ownership :o) I drive it every day, some short and some long trips - good as gold. I have my i30 serviced twice a year and the mechanic always gives me great reports. There's a lot of cars out there, I'd thoroughly recommend my i30 - 100% :o) Show details

Perfcet – lOVE MY I30 WAGON ... I have done 100km in my I30 and its still immaculate. I am due for a service, fuel great as i'm traveling 90min a day to work and usually fill up one a week. Show details

Peeling steering wheel – My car is used on a daily basis for private use and I am the only driver. I haven't even done 50,000kms in my car and I am having this problem with my peeling steering wheel. My car is serviced regularly by the same mechanic. Show details

the best heckin car – cost of petrol is low, fast, safe and reliable. ive had my i30 for years and i love it. its a small car but you'd be surprised what you can fit in the back. its great. Show details

Good – Perfect car , been driving almost 3 years now , engine condition is perfect , will worth it for your money , so highly recommend this for anyone , specially for beginners this will gonna be perfect car to learn how to drive as well , so thank you Hyundai  Show details

perfect car – at the stage of life between being a girlfriend/wife then mum all in the next few years. This car is trendy, sleek and perfect for my years ahead. I go camping each year and pull a trailer plus I also have nephews car seats go in it and my partner takes in of road an on boys trips all the time. Below details may not be correct  Show details

Very Good Car – We were looking into a medium sized car and were tossing up between the I30 and a Cruze SRIV. All i can say is i am glad i chose the I30. Its my wife's car she uses everyday for work and to run the kids around, its very comfortable, good on fuel and has plenty of space for a car this size. It is also the family car as i have a work car and we… Read more

have had no issues piling in all our stuff for family holidays.

One of the best things is all the storage pockets for the driver and passenger. I did have a small issue with the Apple car play but Hyundai fixed it straight away with no issues.

Would have no problems recommending this car to anyone.

Very ordinary car – Bought the car for Mrs. who liked the fixed price servicing. Turns out we got duded with that, told it was 5-years, no mention of 40,000k so gave Hyundai the flick as far as servicing went. It's got 135,000k's and has made the weird wind up noise on start since day one. Nothing to see here according to Hyundai. Engine knocks when cold, gets… Read more

better when hot. As a country car the brakes are excellent, pads and rotors still like new. Carpets, seats etc very poor quality, carpet shows wear even though its had mats since day 1. Radio works like Windoze, when it feels like it. Steering is vague to say the least, bloody awful electric system. Engine lost the new car pep very quickly, a bit sluggish now but can still hold highway speeds OK. Economy about 6L per 100 highway. Front end developed thump at 1500k but hasn't worsened. All springs have sagged a LOT. Going to drive it into the ground, resale is zilch with the low cost of the new models. Would NEVER buy another Hyundai and have had success convincing family and friends to look at other makes. I call it the mobile blind spot, but I guess all hatches are the same.

i30 is Ok..well sort of – Our i30 is three years old with around 170000ks on her now so she gets used a lot..The front seats used to be comfortable but now are just about unbearable Im looking at fitting a couple of after market seats or retro fitting higher level i30 seats from a wrecker,the stereo has just died and I was informed the stereo only has 3 years… Read more

warranty......No five year warranty there. must be in the fine print...The clutch developed a vibration which was bad....New clutch fitted..3000 plus dollars...not covered by warranty either apparently clutches are treated like brake pads....though I've never had a clutch go bad so quick after all shes not a truck and doing hard work and the kilometers are all highway no stop start driving...and I'm to old to be a hoon.....The five year warranty is pie in the sky in my opinion same as the unlimited kilometers...after 120000 ks Hyundai treat their vehicles as high mileage machines...

Great car but still can be improved! – I bought this car brand new in 2016. It’s great little car with lots of boot space and leg rooms. But not enough power and torque!! On the highway and up the hill with 3 adults on board this car really short of breath! And the road noise from the tyre is little annoying. Apart from this two issues, it’s a fantastic car.  Show details