This is an impressive Korean hatch from my opinion. It can match or better some of the lower end Contis in terms of layout and fit. Some of the styling seems to be a lift from some of the Conti/Jap hatches, but it is well put together.
It is a very comfortable car to commute in, although the steering feels a little numb, or not talking back to me. Not such a good thing, but others may not mind.
If you still have doubt about Korean engine being rough and having bad fuel economy, you should really try this. It is quiet both inside and outside. 15km/L can easily be obtainable if used mostly on expressways.
Strengths
Affordability, good equipment the price. Decent engine/fuel economy.
Weaknesses
Only wished the interior and instruments are better designed.
Had it since last thursday, didn't have any chance to really "test" it capability... slow on the start but once you catch the speed, driving it is a cruise.. easy to drive for ladies...Kids love the sunroof... well it was seldom open!!!
just performed 10K servicing and the car is still.. i would say... solid and quiet... important thing is the engine is very under power unless u chip it. FC still bet 11 to 12 litre/100Km. Sound proofing still good...
No regrets.... ;) asdzds
wow!!! how did you clock those fanstastic consumption??? I drove it up malaysia, never manage those figures... any secerts to share??? Anyway, the ride up north was smooth even at 160km/h for most part of the drive..... asdzds
Know what... I went to GMotor at AMK Autopoint2 to tune up the car and I had a sweet surprise...... Sam did a fantastic job! Now I can hit 0-100KM in less than 10sec, he managed to clock 8.6 on his stop watch!!!!! Gained additional 20hp... The only thing left is to swap out the original tyres for some Yoko and this babe is ready to take on the Honda!!!!!
I tear out the UniChip from my Volvo S60 and place it in the i30 as my wife complains the car has no power... one this tiny chip is in place, the under performance is a thing of the pass... manufacturer had under tune the car by leaps and bound, thus the lack of power on launch....
I would say so far so sweet..... :) asdzds