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2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000
 
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Hyundai i30 SX CRDi
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In these post-financial crisis times, choice, quality and value for money have never been more important, and in Australia’s fastest-growing vehicle category Hyundai i30 SX has repeated last year’s win, offering all of the above and more. Not prepared to admire one Australia’s Best Cars trophy in the cabinet for the i30, Hyundai set about improving the car to stay ahead of the competition, which wouldn’t have been easy considering it already punched above its weight in standard features and security. Last year’s winning car had a smart safety package of electronic stability control, dual front airbags, electronic brakeforce distribution and traction control, although it missed out on side and curtain airbags. Through the advocacy of Australia’s Best Cars, this year the base model SX has these additional airbags as standard, moving the entire i30 range to a five-star ANCAP safety rating, while remaining at the budget end of the category. This is a significant win for consumers and adds pressure to other manufacturers to offer maximum occupant protection in base models. The diesel i30 was pipped by the petrol variant by just a few points last year. In 2009 the tables have turned, although it was still a close call. The diesel i30 hits home with top marks for fuel consumption with a combined cycle of 4.7L/100km (7.2L/100km for petrol). This is supported by class-leading running and repair costs and a generous five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty. At 1.6 litres, the diesel engine achieves peak power of 85kW at 4000rpm, which doesn’t sound much, but with a thumping 255Nm of torque available in the meat of the rev range, hill climbing or highway cruising is always effortless. The diesel is also extremely quiet and could teach a few valuable lessons to more expensive Euro manufacturers. Handling dynamics are solid if not outstanding, with the electrically assisted steering sometimes displaying a centre dead-spot, but in general there is good progressive steering feel and on-road compliance. On the roughest of dirt roads, the ride for all passengers was above average and well insulated from all but the biggest potholes. The i30 isn’t a big car externally, but a surprisingly spacious interior awaits driver and passengers. Tilt and reach adjustment for the steering column allows the driver to find the perfect position in the comfortable and supportive seat. Rear seat passengers aren’t forgotten, with adequate comfort and space even for those growing teenagers. Split-fold seats and easy access through the rear hatch also allow extra carrying capacity. Interior controls are clear and straightforward and within easy reach of the driver. Standard features also include auxiliary and USB inputs allowing full iPod integration into the vehicle’s MP3-capable single CD player. Build quality continues to be high, and both interior and exterior styling still look fresh a couple of years into its model life. Hyundai i30 is still king of this class and has clearly thrown down the gauntlet to other manufacturers in this class to “catch me if you can”.
Finalists
Previous Results
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