The Hyundai i30 II CW (facelift 2015) 1.6 GDI, producing 135 horsepower, represents a significant iteration within the second generation of Hyundai’s popular compact wagon. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh in 2015 and continuing through 2017, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance for the European and global markets. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the base 1.4L engine and the more potent turbocharged options, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and economical family vehicle. The “CW” designation signifies the “Cross Wagon” body style, Hyundai’s term for a station wagon or estate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i30 |
| Generation | i30 II CW (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (135 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 110.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.9 Hp/l |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1219-1380 kg (2687.43 – 3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440-601 kg (970.03 – 1324.98 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) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| 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 | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 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 direct fuel injection (GDI), a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The G4FD boasts a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust strokes 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. While an automatic transmission was offered in other i30 variants, the 1.6 GDI was primarily paired with the manual gearbox in many markets.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI-equipped i30 CW offers a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.2 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The engine feels responsive enough for merging onto highways and overtaking, but it lacks the punch of the turbocharged engines available in the i30 lineup. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise shifts, and the gear ratios are well-suited for both city and highway driving. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 T-GDI, the 1.6 GDI prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The naturally aspirated engine delivers a linear power curve, making it predictable and easy to control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i30 CW 1.6 GDI typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Safety features included multiple airbags and stability control. The specific equipment levels varied depending on the market and optional packages selected by the buyer.
Chassis & Braking
The i30 CW utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, but it still offers decent body control in corners. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i30 CW 1.6 GDI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical family car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the power and refinement of its turbocharged counterparts. Compared to the 1.6 T-GDI, the 1.6 GDI offered lower running costs but less exciting performance. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Golf Estate and Ford Focus Estate, the i30 CW offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty.
Legacy
The Hyundai i30 II CW 1.6 GDI has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The G4FD engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed manual transmission is generally trouble-free. Common issues, when they arise, often relate to routine maintenance items such as spark plugs, air filters, and oil changes. On the used car market, these i30 CWs represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical station wagon. Their fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
