The Hyundai i30 II (facelift, produced 2015-2017) 1.6 GDI Blue represents a significant iteration within the second generation of Hyundai’s popular C-segment hatchback. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, targeting buyers seeking a practical and modern family vehicle. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the i30 lineup, it slotted between the base 1.4L engine and the more powerful 1.6L Turbo models. The “Blue” designation indicated a focus on reduced emissions and improved fuel economy, aligning with growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious vehicles. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where the C-segment hatchback market is highly competitive.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II (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 | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 129 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.9 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1271-1417 kg (2802.08 – 3123.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 403-549 kg (888.46 – 1210.34 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 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 | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i30 1.6 GDI Blue is the Hyundai G4FD engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (GDI), a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The G4FD features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust strokes, further enhancing performance and reducing emissions. 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 exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing fuel economy and driver engagement over the convenience of an automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The i30 1.6 GDI Blue offers a balanced driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.9 seconds. The six-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, and the engine feels responsive in the mid-range. Compared to the more powerful 1.6L Turbo models, the 1.6 GDI Blue feels less eager to rev, but it offers better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, with a relatively long final drive. The steering is light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Blue” trim level of the i30 II facelift focused on efficiency and value. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, a radio with USB connectivity, power windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a dark color scheme. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a clear instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 II utilizes 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 system is an electric power steering (EPS) rack and pinion, offering light and precise steering feel. The i30 1.6 GDI Blue typically came equipped with 225/45 R17 tires, providing adequate grip in various driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 1.6 GDI Blue was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and good value for money. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its turbocharged counterparts. Compared to other C-segment hatchbacks in Europe, such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the i30 offered a competitive package with a longer warranty and a more affordable price point. The 1.6 GDI engine offered a good balance between fuel economy and performance, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized practicality and efficiency.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II 1.6 GDI Blue has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The G4FD engine is known for its longevity, and the six-speed manual transmission is relatively trouble-free. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and efficient hatchback at an affordable price. While not a performance icon, the i30 1.6 GDI Blue remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and economical family car.
