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Hyundai is about to set upon us its first proper hot hatch, the i30 N. The thing is, had Hyundai released its calmer SR brother a few years ago, they’d already have had a hot hatch.
With 150kW/265Nm, this surprisingly capable ‘warm hatch’ rivals the spicier five-doors of yesteryear. In the mid-2000s, a Mk V Golf GTI was putting out 147kW/280Nm from a 2.0-litre turbo four. The new i30 SR almost matches this while rocking just a boosted 1.6.
Once you’ve planted yourself behind the wheel of the SR, you’ll find little to complain about with the driving environment. Well laid-out controls and intuitive ergonomics make the car easy to get to know, while well-bolstered leather seats make for a comfy and visually pleasant space to steer from.
Switching to Sport and bringing the paddles into play helps matters, and there’s enough urge that a firm application of boot to pedal will result in a smooth, linear surge of turbo-assisted acceleration. There are no prizes for guessing it’s not mind-blowingly quick, but that’s not the point of the SR.
Attack a tight corner and even if you slightly overdo it the car will accept more steering lock with few complaints from chassis, tyres or ESP. The brakes are progressive and remain relatively unfazed at a brisk road pace, with even a proper mid-corner stomp failing to disturb its composure beyond the chirping of ABS and the hazard lights tsk-tsking their disapproval.
For keen drivers spending a little more, we’d be recommending the likes of the Renault Sport Clio or Peugeot 208 GTi.
3.5 stars out of 5 Likes: Refined performance Dislikes: Not that quick; not sporty enough
2017 Hyundai i30 SR Premium specs: Engine: 1591cc inline-4, DOHC, 16v, turbo Power: 150kW @ 6000rpm Torque: 265Nm @ 1500-4500rpm Weight: 1359kg 0-100km/h: 7.2sec (est.) Price: $33,950
