Launched in early 2007, the Hyundai i30 is an exceptionally good value family hatchback. The equipment list for the tested car, a petrol-engined 1.6 Premium, is impressive air conditioning, front
and rear electric windows and heated door mirrors and an awful lot more is fitted as standard. Although there was no NCAP rating at the time of writing, it's expected to test well - there are six airbags, antilock brakes and Electronic Stability Control to protect you and your passengers.

The cabin is well-fitted, comfortable, spacious and attractive. All controls and displays are nicely placed and the use of materials is surprisingly good. The exterior is nicely designed; neat, functional and pleasant to look at, the rear lights are quite high on the tail and there's a fairly bold feature-line on the side. The front end is easy on the eye; the front light clusters are stylish and modern. 15 inch alloys are standard across the range and everything is colour-coded - it all comes together very well.