Hyundai i30 Fastback (2017-2020) Review and Prices

The Hyundai i30 Fastback is a sleek alternative to the likes of the Skoda Rapid and Honda Civic that’s comfortable and stylish but isn’t quite as good for carrying passengers in the back as the standard five-door i30 hatchback.

Besides the more cramped back seats, the Fastback’s interior looks pretty much identical to the hatchback’s. This means everything is exactly where you expect it to be and big, clearly marked buttons make it simple to tweak the car’s settings on the move. While some of the plastics used might not feel as nice as those in some of the European alternatives, everything feels built-to-last.

It doesn’t just feel solid inside, it comes with plenty of kit, too. Standard on all models is an easy-to-use eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring systems. You even get wireless phone charging.

It’s easy to get comfortable thanks to the superb driving position, well-placed pedals and supportive seats with adjustable lumbar support as standard. The roof’s rakish design does, however, slightly reduce headroom for backseat passengers, although there’s lots of legroom so adults can still sit relatively comfortably. Rear visibility does take a hit from the tapered rear end and small back window but boot space has actually increased by a whopping 50 litres over the hatchback.

The i30 Fastback dares to be different in a sea of boxy hatchbacks and it’s all the better for it

This is thanks to the Fastback being very slightly longer than the standard hatchback, but it’s barely noticeable in or out of town. It’s easy to manoeuvre and nimble enough to nip through tight city streets. On a country road the car does lean a bit in the corners but it settles into a comfortable motorway cruise.

Speaking of motorways, you’ll want to pick a 138hp 1.4-litre petrol model if you do lots of long journeys. There’s also a 118hp 1.0-litre model that’s best around town. Hyundai claims these engines will return 54.3mpg for the 1.0-litre and 51.4mpg for the 1.4-litre, but an equivalent Golf will be cheaper to run.

All models come with a host of electronic safety features including the all-important automatic emergency braking system that’ll brake for you to help prevent slow-speed bumps and scrapes.

Overall, the i30 Fastback is a practical, stylish alternative to a typical family hatchback. Hyundai’s fantastic build quality and reassuring 5-year unlimited mileage warranty make this a great all-round family car.