The Hyundai i30.
ROADTEST FACT FILE
Car...Hyundai i30
Model...Active
Mpg (comb cycle)...76.3
CO2...97g/km
Price...from £17,995
Loaned by Wight Motors, Sandown
GADGET geeks looking for a perfect family ride will hit the jackpot with the Hyundai i30.
This car — sleek, spacious and easy to drive — has buttons, lots of buttons, all designed to make your drive easier and more comfortable.
Radio settings, cruise control and mobile phone connectivity can all be controlled via the impressive steering wheel, while on the dashboard, the radio stations can be changed and the direction of your air-con can be adjusted.
There is also a multimedia outlet, with USB port for your mp3 player or android phone. This was the outstanding feature for me, someone who likes to sing along while driving, as it was simple to use and allowed me to belt out my favourite playlist while out on journeys.
Unlike some hatchbacks, there is no compromise on space and comfort in the rear seats, with enough room to seat three adults easily. And the cavernous boot allows for prams, shopping, luggage — anything you need for your trip.
The model I drove for a very wet weekend was the Active diesel model.
Other features included a special steering programme, which can make it lighter for parking, alloy wheels and rear parking sensors, as well as start-stop technology to help save fuel.
Fuel efficiency is at the top of everyone’s list when considering a new car, and this motor delivers.
As part of the Blue Drive range, this model has an outstanding combined cycle of 76.3 miles to the gallon, equating to 890 miles on a single tank.
It’s an all-round winner.