The Hyundai i30 II CW 1.6 CRDi, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a practical and fuel-efficient offering within the second generation of Hyundai’s popular i30 compact family. The “CW” designation signifies the station wagon (estate) body style, aimed at providing increased cargo capacity and versatility compared to the standard hatchback. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter CRDi diesel engine producing 110 horsepower, was positioned as a mid-range option, balancing economy with reasonable performance for European drivers seeking a spacious and efficient vehicle. It played a significant role in Hyundai’s continued expansion within the competitive European C-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II CW |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1900-2750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1900-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FB |
| Engine displacement | 1582 cm3 (96.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 528 l (18.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1642 l (57.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4485 mm (176.57 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1571 mm (61.85 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the i30 CW 1.6 CRDi is the Hyundai D4FB engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The D4FB is a turbocharged engine, employing a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall performance. The high compression ratio of 17.3:1 is typical for diesel engines, maximizing thermal efficiency. This engine was known for its relatively quiet operation compared to some earlier diesel designs. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque offered by the 1.6 CRDi engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the i30 CW. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.5 seconds. The engine’s peak torque, available from 1900-2750 rpm, meant that the car felt reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, particularly for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 GDI gasoline engine or the higher-output diesel variants, the 1.6 CRDi prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The six-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. The wagon body style did add some weight, slightly impacting acceleration compared to the hatchback version.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 CW 1.6 CRDi typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a radio/CD player with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Higher trim levels, such as Style or Comfort, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a more sophisticated audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 CW featured a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for long-distance driving. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 CW 1.6 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical family car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Estate, and Peugeot 308 SW, the i30 CW offered a competitive package with a strong value proposition. The 1.6 CRDi engine was considered a good compromise between performance and efficiency, although some reviewers noted that it lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues with the engine or transmission.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II CW 1.6 CRDi has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The D4FB engine, while not without its potential issues (such as potential DPF clogging if not properly maintained), is generally considered robust. These i30 CWs represent a good value for buyers seeking a spacious, economical, and practical estate car. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are relatively low. The model helped solidify Hyundai’s reputation for building well-equipped and reliable vehicles, contributing to the brand’s continued growth in the European market.
