The Hyundai i30 II (facelift, produced 2015-2017) 1.4 (100 hp) ‘Blue’ variant represented an entry-level offering within the second generation i30 range, itself based on the Hyundai-Kia ‘PD’ platform. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this model aimed to provide affordable and fuel-efficient transportation for the European market, where the i30 competed with established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The ‘Blue’ designation signified Hyundai’s focus on minimizing emissions and maximizing fuel economy within this specific trim level. This version was primarily targeted at buyers prioritizing practicality and running costs over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (100 Hp) blue |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1-7.5 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50 – 48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-5.8 l/100 km (42 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 129-135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 3500 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Kappa / G4LC |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 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 | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1179-1314 kg (2599.25 – 2896.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 506-641 kg (1115.54 – 1413.16 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) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| 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 | 1555-1563 mm (61.22 – 61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563-1571 mm (61.54 – 61.85 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 770 mm (30.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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 | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The i30 1.4 ‘Blue’ was powered by Hyundai’s Kappa G4LC engine, a 1.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of Hyundai’s Kappa family, designed for fuel efficiency and compact size. It featured multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produced 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 10.5:1 was a factor in its ability to run on standard gasoline. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission was a six-speed manual gearbox, optimized for fuel economy rather than sporty performance. The gear ratios were relatively tall, prioritizing higher gears for cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The i30 1.4 ‘Blue’ offered modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 12.7 seconds. While adequate for everyday driving, it wasn’t particularly quick. The engine felt somewhat strained when accelerating hard, and the tall gear ratios in the manual transmission meant frequent downshifts were necessary for overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter gasoline or 1.6-liter diesel variants, the 1.4 ‘Blue’ felt noticeably slower. However, its lighter weight and focus on efficiency resulted in better fuel economy. The steering was light and easy, making it suitable for urban driving, but lacked the feel and precision of some competitors. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ‘Blue’ trim level was the entry point to the i30 II range. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. The ‘Blue’ trim was deliberately kept basic to offer an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The braking system was adequate for the car’s performance, but lacked the stopping power of higher-spec models with larger brakes. The i30 ‘Blue’ typically featured smaller wheels and tires (15 or 16 inch) compared to higher trim levels, contributing to its focus on fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 1.4 ‘Blue’ was generally well-received as an affordable and economical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the i30 offered a more competitive price point, but lacked the brand prestige and driving dynamics of those established models. The 1.6-liter gasoline and diesel variants of the i30 offered significantly better performance, but at a higher cost. The ‘Blue’ trim was aimed at buyers who prioritized value for money and low running costs.
Legacy
The Kappa G4LC engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, with few major issues reported. The i30 II, in general, gained a reputation for being a dependable and practical car. On the used car market, the 1.4 ‘Blue’ variant remains an affordable option for buyers seeking a budget-friendly hatchback. While not a performance standout, its fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs make it a sensible choice for everyday transportation. Parts availability is generally good, and the i30 II is relatively easy to maintain. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s limited performance and basic equipment levels.
