New generation Hyundai i30 launched - more challenge for Mazda3

The third generation of the i30 debuted at the Paris Motor Show with its sights set squarely on the top of its segment.

The red hatchback that appeared on the Paris show floor is one of the Korean carmaker's most important commercial products. The car is 4,340 mm long, 1,790 mm wide, 1,455 mm high and has a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. The new generation is 15 mm shorter than the previous generation, but Hyundai claims the i30 still has the most spacious cabin in its segment.

The new generation i30 debuted at the Paris Motor Show. Photo: Carscoops.

The exterior design has changes in the radiator grille surface, different air intake style, and refined headlights. The rear of the car is also completely different from the previous generation, from the taillights to the bumper and the rear door.

Engine options include 3 diesel and 3 petrol. The standard versions use a 1.4-liter petrol engine with 99 horsepower and 134 Nm of torque. Next is a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 118 horsepower and 170 Nm of torque. The most advanced is the new 1.4-liter T-GDI turbocharged engine with 138 horsepower and 242 Nm of torque.

Customers who prefer diesel engines can choose the 1.6-liter with power ranging from 94 to 134 horsepower. All engine versions are combined with a standard 6-speed manual transmission. The 1.4-liter T-GDI and the top-spec diesel version can be equipped with an optional 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The new generation Hyundai i30 is equipped with a series of active safety systems, such as automatic emergency braking with forward collision warning system, intelligent cruise control, blind spot warning, rear collision warning, lane keeping assist, speed limit information and active headlights.

The cabin is dominated by a new 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. An 8-inch touchscreen is available as an option.

The new generation Hyundai i30 will be sold in the European market from the beginning of 2017. The selling price has not been announced. In the world market, the i30 hatchback is a rival of the Mazda3 and Ford Focus. In Australia, the Korean car also has a strong challenger in the same segment, the Toyota Corolla.

According to VNE