The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 CRDi Automatic, produced between 2012 and 2015, represented a key offering in Hyundai’s European C-segment hatchback lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this variant utilized a 1.6-liter common-rail diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and economical daily driver, particularly in markets where diesel engines were favored. The i30 II, built on the PD platform (internally designated as i30 II), was a significant step forward for Hyundai in terms of design, quality, and refinement compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1900-2750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FB |
| Engine displacement | 1582 cm3 (96.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 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 | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear track | 1571 mm (61.85 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i30 II 1.6 CRDi Automatic is the Hyundai D4FB engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating turbo lag and improving responsiveness. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Hyundai’s own development, was designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes. It features a torque converter and electronic control for optimized shift points based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque produced by this powertrain configuration resulted in a comfortable, rather than sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.7 seconds, and top speed was limited to 111.85 mph. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish performance compared to the six-speed manual version. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine RPM at cruising speeds. The engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, including highway merging and overtaking, but lacked the punch of higher-output diesel variants or the gasoline-powered options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 II 1.6 CRDi Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Premium, added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Dashboard design was functional and modern for its time, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The i30 II 1.6 CRDi Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and reasonable price point. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power and that the automatic transmission could feel slightly sluggish at times. Compared to the 1.6-liter gasoline engine, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy but less overall performance. Against the more powerful 1.7 CRDi variant, it provided a more affordable entry point but sacrificed some performance. Reliability was generally good, with the D4FB engine proving to be a durable unit.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 CRDi Automatic remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. The D4FB engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity and reliability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has primarily been used for short trips. Overall, this variant represents a solid and dependable choice for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient hatchback. Its blend of practicality, economy, and comfort continues to make it a viable option in the used car segment.
