The Hyundai i30 II Coupe 1.6 (120 hp) was a front-wheel-drive coupe produced between 2013 and 2015. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the i30 Coupe range, it aimed to provide a stylish and affordable option for buyers seeking a compact, sporty vehicle. This variant utilized Hyundai’s Gamma II engine family and a six-speed manual transmission, representing a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance. It was part of the second generation of the i30, specifically the Coupe body style derived from the successful i30 hatchback, sharing the same platform (FD) with the Kia Ceed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 156 Nm @ 4850 rpm (115.06 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Gamma II / G4FG |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.44 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1315 kg (2899.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 378 l (13.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1316 l (46.47 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4300 mm (169.29 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai i30 II Coupe, launched in 2013, represented Hyundai’s attempt to capture a larger share of the European C-segment coupe market. Building upon the success of the i30 hatchback, the Coupe offered a more dynamic and stylish alternative. The 1.6-liter, 120 horsepower variant served as the entry point to the Coupe range, targeting buyers prioritizing fuel economy and affordability over outright performance. This model was particularly important in Europe, where smaller displacement engines and lower price points are highly valued. It competed directly with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Coupe, Opel Astra GTC, and Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the i30 II Coupe 1.6 was Hyundai’s Gamma II engine, specifically the G4FG code. This 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It utilized a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produced 120 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 156 Nm (115 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. The compression ratio was set at 10.5:1. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission was a six-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was offered on other i30 Coupe trims, it wasn’t available with the 1.6L 120hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.4 seconds, and the top speed was around 119 mph. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved to access its peak power. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged variants or the diesel options, the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to a more balanced feel in corners. The manual transmission offered precise shifts, enhancing the driving experience for those who preferred more control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter i30 Coupe typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a USB audio connection, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 II Coupe utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. A stabilizer bar was included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The car rode on 225/45 R17 tires, providing a good balance between grip and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The i30 II Coupe 1.6 received mixed reviews. Critics praised its stylish design and competitive price point, but noted that the 1.6-liter engine lacked the punch of its turbocharged counterparts. Fuel economy was generally considered good, with combined figures around 36.8 US mpg. Compared to the 1.6-liter turbocharged version, the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine offered lower running costs but significantly reduced performance. The diesel variants provided even better fuel economy but came with a higher initial price. The i30 Coupe 1.6 was seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing affordability and efficiency over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II Coupe 1.6 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The Gamma II engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed manual transmission is generally trouble-free. Common issues reported by owners include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional electrical glitches. However, these are typically minor and relatively inexpensive to repair. Today, the i30 II Coupe 1.6 represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a stylish and economical coupe. Its simple mechanical design and readily available parts make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain.
