Even though it unveiled the facelifted i30 
range earlier in 2015 at the Geneva Motor Show , Hyundai is already working on the next-generation model. Our paparazzi caught a camouflaged version of the third-gen hatchback near the Nürburgring track in Germany ahead of its official launch in late 2016 or early 2017.
The same prototype previews the next Elantra GT model the brand will offer in the United States.
The current i30 was launched at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and received its mid-cycle facelift after nearly four years. The previous model was introduced in 2007 on the same platform as the Kia Cee’d . The hatchback was developed at Hyundai’s Design and Technical Center in Germany as a competitor to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.
Like its predecessors, the third-generation i30 will likely get a three-door hatch, five-door hatch, and wagon versions. In the U.S., it will be sold as a five-door hatchback only.
Continue reading for the full review of the new Hyundai i30.
Exterior
Although the camouflage does a good job at covering the important details, the car’s actual design is far from being a mystery. Hyundai has just introduced a new design language for its lineup and the i30 is also in for a similar makeover. Expect the new model to feature a larger hexagonal grille flanked by slender headlamps, a sportier front bumper, and a sculpted hood. Don’t expect it to look as commanding as the Genesis though, as the design will most likely resemble the i40 (Sonata in the U.S.). The hatch will probably be wider and a bit longer too, with an inch or two added to the wheelbase.
Word has it the next i30 will also gain a performance-oriented N version. This model will feature a more aggressive appearance with beefed-up bumpers and fenders, a larger roof spoiler, and a diffuser-like piece around back.
Interior
There’s no indication as to how the i30 will change on the inside, but I expect the hatch to feature a more styling design and a much cleaner center console. Tech should include updated versions of the brand’s navigation system with HD radio and Siri, Blue Link system with remote start, climate control, and destination search. The slightly longer wheelbase should also enhance the car’s already spacious cabin to offer better rear legroom and shoulder room. Hyundai will probably find a way to increase cargo room as well.
Drivetrain
The new i30 will be motivated by an array of gasoline and diesel engines, most likely carried over from the current model with minor changes. Globally, the i30 comes with no fewer than four gasoline engines displacing 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 liters. On the diesel front, it can be had with either a 1.4-liter or 1.6-liter, both with four cylinders.
In the U.S., the Elantra GT comes with a 2.0-liter unit rated at 173 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque. Mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, the four-pot takes the hatch from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.5 seconds.
Prices
Despite all the updates, Hyundai will want to keep the i30’s pricing below that of the competition. Given the current model retails from £12,995 (about $19,750) in the U.K., I’d says the third-gen model isn’t likely to have a base price of more than £14,500 (around $22,030).
Competition
Volkswagen Golf
Now in its seventh generation (in production since 2012 in Europe), the Volkswagen Golf continues to be the leader of the compact hatchback segment in Europe, where it is sold with a wide choice of engines, ranging from 1.0-liter three-cylinder units to 2.0-liter four-bangers. The 2.0-liter mills are of course restricted to the performance-oriented GTI and R models. Moving over to diesels, there are 1.6- and 2.0-liter four-pots generating up to 181 horses and 280 pound-feet in the GTD model. U.K. prices start from £17,595 and go all the way up to £27,500 for the GTI and £30,820 for the R.
Find out more about the Volkswagen Golf here .
Ford Focus
Another popular choice in Europe (and in the U.S. as well for that matter) is the Ford Focus, currently in its third generation. Though far from fresh, having been launched back in 2010, the current Focus received a comprehensive facelift in 2015 and an RS version. Drivetrains aren’t as varied as the Golf’s, but the Euro-spec Focus can be had with both gasoline and diesel engines. Options include a 123-horsepower 1.0-liter EcoBoost, a 182-horsepower 1.6-liter EcoBoost, and 251-pound-feet 2.0-liter diesel. The Focus retails from £15,995 in the U.K., while the ST and RS fetch £22,495 and £28,940 before options, respectively.
Read more about the Ford Focus here .
Conclusion
Judging by what Hyundai has launched recently, the redesign should give the new i30 a bolder and more-refined look that may help it give the Golf and the Focus a good run for their money. One of the current i30’s many advantages is that its base model has more premium features than its competitors. If Hyundai manages to maintain that on the third-gen car and fix some of the flaws, it might stand a better chance against the established nameplates of the hatchback segment.