The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 GDI (135 hp) Automatic, produced between 2012 and 2015, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the competitive compact hatchback segment. Part of the second generation of the i30 (codenamed GD), this variant aimed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and convenience through its automatic transmission. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the i30 II lineup, it slotted between the base 1.4L engine and the more powerful 1.6L direct-injection models with manual transmissions. The i30 II was designed primarily for the European market, where the compact hatchback class is particularly popular, but it also saw sales in other regions including Australia and parts of Asia. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical, well-equipped, and modern hatchback with the ease of an automatic gearbox.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (135 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) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 110.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 157 Nm @ 4850 rpm (115.8 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FD |
| 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 | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | D-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1225 kg (2700.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 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 (Back) track | 1571 mm (61.85 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| 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 GDI Automatic is the Hyundai G4FD engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine featuring Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology. GDI allows for more precise fuel delivery, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and increased power output compared to traditional port fuel injection systems. The engine utilizes a dual continuously variable valve timing (D-CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust to enhance performance across the rev range. The engine produces 135 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 157 Nm (115.8 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. This power is then sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, was not known for particularly rapid shifts, prioritizing smooth operation over outright performance. The engine’s design focused on balancing power with fuel economy, making it suitable for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI Automatic i30 offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, which was adequate for daily commuting but not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish during quick acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than performance, meaning the engine often operated at higher RPMs during acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.6 GDI, the automatic suffered a slight performance penalty. The i30’s suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. Steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 II 1.6 GDI Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Premium, added features like alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, rear parking sensors, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather seats on higher trims. Dashboard design was modern and functional, with a clear instrument cluster and logically arranged controls. Optional extras included navigation systems, Bluetooth connectivity, and automatic climate control.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The i30 II featured electric power steering, which offered light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, ranging from 195/65 R15 to 225/45 R17.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 GDI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good value for money. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish and that the engine lacked the punch of some of its rivals. Compared to other compact hatchbacks with automatic transmissions, such as the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus, the i30 offered a competitive level of equipment and fuel economy at a lower price point. The 1.6 GDI engine offered better fuel economy than the larger 1.8L engine available in some markets, but less overall performance. Reliability was generally good, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 GDI Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The G4FD engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission, while not the most exciting, is generally dependable. Common issues are relatively minor, often relating to wear and tear on suspension components or electrical glitches. Today, these i30s represent an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a well-equipped and fuel-efficient compact hatchback. The i30 II helped to establish Hyundai as a serious contender in the European compact car market, paving the way for future models like the i30N performance hatchback.
