When more expensive, more efficient Hyundai i30 hatch hits Australia

Hyundai’s more expensive new i30 hatchback won’t arrive in Australia until the third quarter of 2024.

Hyundai Australia chief operating officer John Kett last week confirmed the new European-made hatch’s arrival time.

That leaves Hyundai without what’s arguably its best-known car, and half of its best-selling line alongside the newer sedan, for around six months.

Production for the current i30 hatch for Australia is ending in Korea, and won’t be restarting.

Made in Korea Credit: CarExpert

Although there are some examples of the outgoing car on their way to dealers and existing order holders at the moment, there will be a gap between when those cars run out – likely at the end of 2023 – and when the new car touches down.

Hyundai is banking on better supply of the Venue SUV and entry-level Kona SUV to help fill the void on the VFACTS sales charts.

It’s also leaning on the i30 Sedan, which is a separate model to the hatch that will continue to be sourced from Korea, to pick up some slack.

When it does touch down, the new i30 hatchback will be more expensive than the current model.

Made in Slovakia Credit: CarExpert

Along with a new look, the updated model will bring a more efficient 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology to Australia.

Where the current i30 features a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol making 120kW of power and 203Nm of torque, hooked up to a six-speed automatic, the new model coming from Europe will pack 117kW of power and 253Nm of torque.

A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and 48V mild-hybrid tech help keep fuel consumption down at 6.1 litres per 100km.

This new technology, along with the cost associated with shipping cars from Europe instead of Korea, will mean the new i30 will be more expensive.

The current range kicks off at $24,000 before on-road costs.

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