For some car makers, creating an estate involves little more than grafting a boxy back end onto a hatchback and hoping for the best. Not Hyundai. The all-new i30 Estate is based on a stretched platform extended by 50mm, and as a result is a more flexible, family-friendly package. And with prices starting at £12,995, the new i30 also beats the opposition for value and equipment.
Aimed at the family and leisure motorist who doesn't want the compromises of an MPV, the i30 Estate boasts more rear leg and headroom than the hatch, along with a bigger boot and a lower loading edge.
But it's not just the i30 Estate's practicality that makes everything else in the sector look a little underwhelming. Like the i30 hatch, it's exceptionally well appointed and boasts a host of standard features that would normally feature on the option lists of rival cars. Air conditioning, ESP and an auxiliary USB/iPod connection are all standard across the range - as is Hyundai's unique Five-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty.
The i30 also features a number of design features that mark it apart from the hatch. The front end has additional chrome highlighting, while the standard roofbars are as attractive as they are useful. The estate also features door mirrors that incorporate the side repeater lights - a feature unique in the sector. For added security - and to avoid being sideswiped by the local pizza delivery moped - they also fold in electrically.
Customers will be able to choose between three engine and transmission options when the estate hits showrooms on 2 April. Both the 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre CRDi diesel powerplants already feature in the hatchback range, while the 1.6 litre petrol will be available with an optional automatic transmission.
With its bespoke platform, new design features and fully loaded specification list, you might expect the i30 Estate to attract a correspondingly oversized premium over the hatch. Prices start at £12,995 for the 1.6-litre Comfort model - which represents a £700 increase over the equivalent i30 hatch. In addition all i30 Estates will feature electric folding doors mirrors with integrated repeater lights, roof rails, cargo security screen and a rear power outlet.
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