Hyundai i30 Tourer 1.6 Classic 5dr Car Review - May 2013

For those purchasing an estate car, it is usually to provide space for the needs of a family, and it is fair to say that the ride of the i30 Tourer has been tailored to suit those needs, with supple suspension that takes all the bumps the road can throw at it. The result of this for the driver is steering that does feel a little on the sterile side with very little feedback, and there is a little bit of body roll while cornering. The 1.6 litre engine isn't exactly a firecracker either, delivering acceleration from 0-62mph in 11.2 seconds, but the top speed of 118mph means that it has plenty of oomph for most family car drivers.

Although there are a few cuts that have been made around the car to help it meet this competitive price point, driver comfort isn't one of them, as it still enjoys a fully adjustable seat and steering wheel to help the driver get comfortable behind the wheel. It is also worth noting that engine noise and road noise are clearly audible at motorway speeds, meaning the cabin is not particularly refined.

Hyundai has played it safe with the looks of the car, opting to keep with many of the conventions set by its rivals, but it is by no means an ugly car. With the large grille and air intake and angular, dynamic headlights, the front end is attractive, while a small spoiler has been included just above the back window, which also helps to ensure the back end is tidy. The one omission which many people will find disappointing is the lack of alloy wheels on the car, but this does help to keep the price down.

Luxuries have been kept to a minimum on this car, but it still has all the basics that a family car might need, including air conditioning and electric windows in the front to help keep things comfortable. The inclusion of an alarm and an immobiliser is also reassuring, helping to keep the car safe from thieves.

Practicality is one of the main features that drivers get with the i30 Tourer, with a cabin that offers plenty of space, and four adults could travel in the car without feeling squashed or lacking headroom. The boot is also one of the biggest in its class, with the rear seats folding completely flat to provide a huge load space when you need to move something really bulky.

While the Tourer hasn't been subjected to the Euro NCAP safety test, the hatchback received the full five stars in the test, and the estate version enjoys the same set of six air bags and electronic stability control to help keep driver and passengers safe. Hyundai also enjoys very good reliability which is supported by an excellent on the road package.

When it comes to finding a cheap estate car, then there is no doubt that the i30 Tourer is one of the most competitively priced, with a list price of only £16,300. However, the running costs for the petrol version aren't as competitive as the diesel engine, with the 1.6 litre engine only delivering an average 42.8mpg.

The resale values of the car do hold up quite well which will be a pleasant surprise when it comes to selling the car, but it is the on the road package that will be a boon to those wanting a hassle free driving experience. The five year unlimited mileage warranty and the five year membership of the RAC for breakdown recovery is a class leading package.