What does the Hyundai Elantra 1.8 GLS and the Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS have in common? Firstly, both models are powered by the same 1.8-litre petrol engine. Secondly, the Hyundai Elantra 1.8 GLS was voted as the 2012 South African Car of the Year while the Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS has been nominated as a finalist for the 2013 South African Car of Year. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS a strong contender to be the 2013 South African Car of the Year.

Hyundai i30 goes all the way

Engine Capability

The Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS is powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine that produces 110kW at 6500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 178Nm available from 4700rpm. This unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The i30 1.8 GLS returns a fuel consumption figure of 6.5-litres/100km and has a CO2 emissions figure of 157g/km. The Hyundai i30 will accelerate to 100km/h in 9.7 seconds and go on to reach a top speed of 190km/h.

??Exterior and Interior Styling Features??

The Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS follows Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design philosophy that’s defined by the hexagonal shaped grille and dynamic body lines running the length of the vehicle. The jewel-like headlights compliment the hexagonal grille and give the i30 1.8 GLS a refined and luxurious look. The Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS rides on sporty 17-inch alloys wheels.

On the inside, the Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS utilises black partial-leather seat upholstery while the accelerator, brake and clutch pedal are made from aluminium. The Radio/CD/MP3 sound system features four speakers and two tweeters and includes AUX, iPod and USB connections. An on-board computer monitors average fuel consumption, average speed, distance to empty and features a trip meter. Dual Zone Climate Control is a standard feature. Cargo capacity is at 378-litres with the rear seats folded up, representing an increase of 10% compared to the first-generation i30.

Safety Features

The Hyundai i30 1.8 GLS is fitted with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM). Other safety features include driver and passenger airbags including side and curtain airbags. Front and rear fog lights are fitted as standard as well as a high-mounted stop light in the rear boot spoiler. The i30 1.8 GLS also features central locking, an alarm system and a Transponder immobiliser.

Hyundai i30 – Price

The Hyundai i30 is covered by a 5-year/150 000km warranty, a 5-year/150 000km anti-perforation warranty, 5-year/150 000km roadside assistance and a 5-year/90 000km service plan with service intervals at 15000km.