The Hyundai i30 III (facelift, produced from 2019-2020) 1.6 CRDi, generating 136 horsepower, represented a key offering in Hyundai’s compact hatchback lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this variant aimed to balance performance with economy, appealing to a broad range of buyers. It was part of the PD generation i30, which received a significant facelift in 2019, updating the styling and refining the interior. This model primarily targeted the European market, where compact diesel hatchbacks were highly popular, but was also available in other regions. The i30 III competed directly with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 III (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2-10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2-10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 103.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1313-1461 kg (2894.67 – 3220.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 419-567 kg (923.74 – 1250.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1301 l (45.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 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 | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4340 mm (170.87 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549-1573 mm (60.98 – 61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563-1581 mm (61.54 – 62.24 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 785 mm (30.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| 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 brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i30 1.6 CRDi was the D4FE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This technology, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowed for a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine produced 136 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. The engine featured four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a reasonable spread of gears for both urban and highway driving. The transmission was chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, aligning with the overall value proposition of this i30 variant.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi with the manual transmission offered a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.7 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but didn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The engine’s torque was readily available from low revs, making it easy to navigate city traffic and providing sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were well-chosen to maximize fuel efficiency, and the clutch and gearshift action were generally smooth. Compared to higher-powered i30 variants, such as those with larger gasoline engines, the 1.6 CRDi prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. It felt less responsive and required more gear changes when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 1.6 CRDi typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as SE Nav or Premium, added features like a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, alloy wheels, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 III utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The steering was electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel. The chassis was designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 1.6 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and competitive price. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be a bit noisy and that the performance wasn’t particularly exciting. Compared to other trims in the i30 lineup, the 1.6 CRDi offered the best fuel economy but the least amount of power. It was a popular choice for drivers who prioritized practicality and running costs over performance. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the i30 1.6 CRDi offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting them on price while providing a similar level of equipment.
Legacy
The 1.6 CRDi engine, in general, proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although like all diesel engines, it was susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The i30 III 1.6 CRDi has maintained a reasonable reputation for reliability in the used car market. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are generally affordable. Today, these i30s represent a good value for buyers looking for an economical and practical hatchback. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the car has been properly maintained.
