The Hyundai i30 II (facelift, produced from 2015 to 2017) 1.6 CRDi Blue variant represents a significant offering in the compact hatchback segment, particularly within the European market. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between economy, comfort, and everyday usability. It falls within the second generation of the i30 (codenamed GD), benefitting from the 2015 facelift which brought styling updates and revised equipment levels. This specific 1.6 CRDi Blue trim was generally considered a mid-range offering, slotting between the base models and the more powerful or better-equipped versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (110 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) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 94 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 77 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| 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 | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1429 kg (3150.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 491 kg (1082.47 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 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 | 1563-1569 mm (61.54 – 61.77 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1571-1577 mm (61.85 – 62.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i30 1.6 CRDi Blue 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. The D4FB is a turbocharged engine, employing a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to enhance low-end torque and overall responsiveness. An intercooler is also present, cooling the intake air to further improve efficiency and power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its breathing efficiency. The engine produces 110 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a respectable 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. This engine was known for its relatively quiet operation compared to some of its competitors. The transmission is a 6-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi Blue i30 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.1 seconds, and top speed is rated at 188 km/h (116.82 mph). The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for everyday driving, providing ample power for overtaking and navigating urban environments. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth gear changes and a reasonable spread of ratios. Compared to higher-powered i30 variants, such as those with larger engines, the 1.6 CRDi feels less eager to rev, but it compensates with significantly better fuel efficiency. The suspension setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps effectively while maintaining reasonable body control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Blue” trim level typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front windows, a USB audio connection, Bluetooth connectivity, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Optional extras available for this trim could include alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension setup with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a good balance of comfort and handling. The rear suspension employs an independent multi-link system, further enhancing ride quality and stability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control in emergency situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 1.6 CRDi Blue was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. It was often praised as a practical and sensible choice for buyers seeking a reliable and economical hatchback. Compared to other trims in the i30 lineup, the 1.6 CRDi offered a more affordable entry point, albeit with slightly less performance. Its fuel economy was notably better than that of the gasoline-powered i30 variants, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues specific to this powertrain configuration.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 CRDi Blue has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D4FB engine, while not without its potential issues (such as diesel particulate filter clogging with infrequent long journeys), is generally considered robust and long-lasting when properly maintained. These i30s continue to offer excellent value for money, providing a practical and economical transportation solution. The combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and affordability has ensured that this variant remains a popular choice among used car buyers.
