Hyundai reveals the new i30 Fastback

After introducing the hatch and the estate (called the Tourer) versions of the versatile i30, Hyundai has added the fastback body style to the i30 range. Revealed alongside the hardcore i30 N hot hatch, the i30 Fastback replaces the three-door body style offered in the previous generation i30.

Sitting lower than the standard i30, the Fastback rocks a sloping roofline that is well proportioned and flows into a neatly integrated lip spoiler. The flared arches and the sleek wraparound tail lights are complemented by nicely sculpted rear bumpers.

The overall height is down by 30mm compared to the i30 hatch. The front fascia has the signature cascading grille but is slightly tweaked to give the fastback a meaner stance. The suspension set-up for the fastback is also stiffened by 15 per cent for more agile handling, states the Korean carmaker. Also, there are 12 different colour options to choose from; and the interior has three different trim colour options.

On the inside, all the bells and whistle from the i30 range are present and some more. The 8.0-inch infotainment screen comes with satnav, smartphone integration and a host of other connectivity features. Driving aids include advanced cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, driver attention alert, high beam assist, rear-cross traffic alert, and lane keeping assist system to name a few.

Under the hood, there is a choice of both petrol and diesel engine options. The gasoline range starts with a turbocharged 1.0-litre T-GDI unit with 117bhp along with a 1.4-litre three-cylinder T-GDI producing 137bhp. The former gets a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while the latter can be had with either a manual or a seven-speed DCT automatic. The oil burner, meanwhile, is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine available in two states of tune – 108bhp and 134bhp. Both versions will be available with the six-speed manual or seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

The i30 Fastback is squarely aimed at the like of Audi A3 Saloon, Mazda 3 Fastback. The third iteration of the i30 range will go on sale in the European markets only early next year. Prices haven’t been divulged yet but are expected to be between the prices of the i30 hatchback and i30 Tourer.