Next month, in March, Hyundai Motor Company will unveil additional images of the i30 (PD) facelift ahead of the Geneva Motor Show.
Unlike the previous release, which only showcased the top N Line version, this time they revealed the normal version, fastback, and wagon designs as well. This is a significant highlight. Of course, due to poor sales figures, only the standard hatchback model is expected to be sold domestically, but the other body types are quite intriguing. ^^
The front design has already been revealed, so it doesn’t evoke much excitement, but I believe the rear design is being shown for the first time.
The most noticeable change compared to the previous model is the unified V-shaped lamps. Notably, the headlamps will feature a new MFR (multifunction reflector) type instead of the existing projection LED type. Additionally, the front design has been altered to accentuate more curves, and it appears that the area of the diffuser located at the rear has been widened, with changes to the position of the muffler confirmed.
Of course, when sold domestically, the position of the muffler and the number of tips may vary slightly.
Unlike the somewhat bland wheels of the previous i30 N Line, the new model features stylish two-tone 18-inch wheels. Additionally, it is expected to use the same Michelin tires as the existing i30 N Line. ^^;
I believe the Veloster, Avante, and i30 are particularly popular among younger individuals in their 20s and 30s.
The i30, in particular, has been sold as a hatchback in Korea and has previously garnered a lot of popularity. As someone in my 20s, I really like the design of the facelifted i30. ^^
The design of the i30 fastback shows no significant differences from that of the hatchback. In fact, the wheel design appears to be the same as that of the hatchback vehicle.
It seems that the only differentiation lies in the body type. ^^
The 2019 Hyundai i30 fastback (left) / 2020 Hyundai i30 fastback (right)
However, one disappointment is that there haven’t been any significant changes compared to the previous i30 fastback design.
Previously, Hyundai Motor Company announced the i30 facelift and stated that a 5-door wagon type will also be released.
This was revealed alongside the facelift. The design evokes memories of the i40, which was previously sold in Korea and discontinued. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of wagon-type vehicles, but they seem perfect for those who prioritize practicality. However, considering the previous poor sales figures, it seems unlikely that this model will be sold domestically. It will likely be marketed primarily in countries like Europe that seek practical vehicles.
Apart from the rear view, the exterior remains the same. Notably, the wagon also offers the option for the N Line, and it features a different wheel design compared to the 18-inch wheels of the hatchback and fastback.
A notable feature inside is the 7-inch digital instrument cluster and the 10.25-inch infotainment monitor. The vehicle will support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and it will also offer Blue Link for real-time traffic information and voice recognition capabilities.
It seems that unlike the high-performance N version, this model focuses more on convenience features to allow for a comfortable driving experience.
Despite being an N Line model, photos of vehicles equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission have been showcased. ^^
It’s hard to predict how this will apply domestically, but if the 6-speed manual transmission is available regardless of options, it might attract significant interest from manual transmission enthusiasts. This could serve as an alternative for those who find the Veloster N too daunting.
The most noteworthy aspect to keep an eye on in the i30 facelift is the introduction of various new engines.
Hyundai Motor Company has announced a total of six engine types: 1.5 DPi, 1.0 T-GDI, 1.0 T-GDI 48V, 1.5 T-GDI 48V, 1.6 CRDi 115 PS, and 1.6 CRDi 136 PS 48V.
The base model will feature a 120-horsepower 1.0-liter gasoline turbo engine paired with a 7-speed DCT transmission. Notably, in line with recent trends, it will also include a mild hybrid engine, and a diesel version with a mild hybrid combination that produces 136 horsepower will also be launched.
It seems unlikely that all these engines will be available in the domestic market... ^^
For those who are more interested, I have also uploaded a table with detailed specifications.
The table confirms that all engine specs can also support a 6-speed manual transmission. However, given the very low demand for manual transmissions in the domestic market, it’s unlikely that this will be uniformly applied.
In any case, I look forward to the future of the i30. Especially in the European market, the introduction of hatchbacks, wagons, and fastbacks will likely garner even more popularity. ^^
I will conclude today’s post here. Due to the recent spread of COVID-19, the number of infected individuals is rapidly increasing day by day.
I urge all readers to take care of themselves and to wear masks when going out!
Thank you.
- 2020. 02. 27 By. Baek Munjo