The Hyundai i30 II CW 1.6 GDI, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant offering in the compact wagon (estate) segment. Part of the second-generation i30 (codenamed GD), the CW – denoting “Combined Wagon” – aimed to provide practicality and fuel efficiency to European buyers, and later, consumers in other markets. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter GDI engine producing 135 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the i30 CW lineup, offering a balance between performance and economy. It served as a more affordable alternative to the higher-powered engine options while providing more features than the base models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II CW |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (135 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) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 164 Nm @ 4850 rpm (120.96 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FD |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.44 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | D-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1193 kg (2630.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 627 kg (1382.3 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 | 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 GDI is the Hyundai G4FD engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology, where fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The G4FD also features Hyundai’s Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust to enhance performance across the rev range. The engine produces 135 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 164 Nm (120.96 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. This power is delivered through a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. The engine’s transverse mounting and relatively compact size contribute to efficient packaging within the i30 CW’s engine bay.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 195 km/h (121.17 mph). While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine offers a responsive feel, particularly in the mid-range. The six-speed gearbox allows for efficient cruising at highway speeds, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s power delivery. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine option available in the i30 CW, this variant feels less urgent, but it offers better fuel economy. Compared to diesel variants, the GDI engine provides a smoother, quieter driving experience, albeit with slightly lower torque.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 CW 1.6 GDI typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, fog lights, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over outright luxury. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 CW utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, providing a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 CW 1.6 GDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or when tackling steep hills. Compared to rivals such as the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the i30 CW offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. Fuel economy figures of around 41.3 US mpg combined were considered respectable for its class. Reliability was also a strong point, with the GDI engine proving to be generally durable.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 CW 1.6 GDI has proven to be a reliable and affordable used car option. The G4FD engine, while not without its potential issues (such as carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common issue with direct injection engines), is generally considered durable with proper maintenance. The i30 CW’s spacious interior and practical wagon body style continue to appeal to buyers looking for a versatile and economical vehicle. Today, these vehicles can be found at reasonable prices, making them an attractive option for those seeking a dependable and fuel-efficient compact wagon.
