The Hyundai i30 II CW (facelift 2015) 1.6 GDI, producing 135 horsepower, represents a significant iteration within the second generation of Hyundai’s popular compact wagon. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh in 2015 and continuing through 2017, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for the European and increasingly, North American, market. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the i30 CW lineup, it slotted between the base 1.4L engine and the more potent turbocharged options. The “CW” designation signifies the “Combined Wagon” body style, emphasizing its practicality and cargo capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II CW (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (135 Hp) blue |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 164 Nm @ 4850 rpm (120.96 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1219-1380 kg (2687.43 – 3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440-601 kg (970.03 – 1324.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 528 l (18.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1642 l (57.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4485 mm (176.57 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 205/55 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5 J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the i30 CW 1.6 GDI lies the Hyundai G4FD engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is characterized by its direct fuel injection (GDI) system, which improves combustion efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The G4FD utilizes a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust strokes, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The engine produces 135 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 164 Nm (120.96 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 10.5:1 contributes to its efficiency. This variant was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although an optional automatic transmission was also available, impacting acceleration slightly.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI engine in the i30 CW provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.7 seconds, and top speed is rated at 192 km/h (119.3 mph). The engine feels responsive in everyday driving situations, with sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. Compared to the more powerful turbocharged engines offered in the i30 range, the 1.6 GDI prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The six-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts, while the optional automatic provides smooth gear changes, albeit with a slight reduction in performance. The wagon’s suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 CW 1.6 GDI typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 CW features a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. The chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with minimal body roll in corners. The wagon’s weight, ranging from 1219 to 1380 kg (2687.43 – 3042.38 lbs.), is relatively moderate, contributing to its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 CW 1.6 GDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the punch of its turbocharged counterparts. Compared to other compact wagons in its class, such as the Volkswagen Golf Estate and the Ford Focus Estate, the i30 CW offered a competitive combination of features, price, and fuel economy. The 1.6 GDI variant was particularly appealing to buyers who prioritized practicality and efficiency over performance.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 CW 1.6 GDI has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The G4FD engine is known for its longevity, and the i30 CW’s overall build quality is generally good. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a practical and fuel-efficient wagon at an affordable price. While not a performance standout, the 1.6 GDI variant remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and economical compact wagon.
