Looking around for a decent estate car is not that easy anymore – mainly because the market is overwhelmed with new offerings from the likes of Ford, Audi and Vauxhall.
Well, times are changing and I would like you all to look again – but this time have a look at Hyundai before you sign on the dotted line. Hyundai have over the last few years upped their game and are now doing things differently from the norm and are producing a decent array of vehicles to suit everyone’s pocket.
Well, I happen to like cars that are a little bit different – which is why I like the i40. If you ask me, the i40 has a lot to offer the modern motorist and at a price that won’t have you on your knees asking your bank manager for additional funding.
Power and Efficiency:
The i40 I had on test was fitted with a 1.7-litre diesel unit that develops 141PS and 340Nm of torque which I have to say feels lively and more than happy to be revved hard on the motorway or rumbling around doing a proper job of being a really good estate car – which I have to say is where the i40 really does come into its own.
The most important part for many people though is MPG. Well, I am happy to report that I managed 50.5 mpg – which really is staggering when you remember this is not a small car. Top speed also comes in around 124mph and the 0-62 dash will take around 11sec.
On the road:
Actually the i40 does well here thanks to the engineers putting in the extra effort to make it feel like it wants to please you. Even on bumpy roads – the i40 felt good and there was nothing I could find to complain about. Also, the steering actually felt well weighted even if you turn into a corner a bit lively – you can be assured of a stern footing coming out the other end.
Safety and Technology
The i40 comes with an unbelievable amount of kit which for me really is its party piece. I am going to just note a small amount of what’s on offer. Starting with; DAB Radio, Parking Sensors, Touchscreen Satellite Navigation with Rear View Parking Camera and Parking Guidance System, 7 Airbags – Front, Front Side, Driver’s Knee and Full Length Curtain, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) Front Seatbelt Pre-tensioners, Height Adjustable Front Seatbelts, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) Climate Control – Dual Zone, Automatic Windscreen Wipers with Rain Sensor and Projection Headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights.
To sum up: The i40 is a proper estate car that can carry an impressive 553 litre boot capacity, expanding to 1,719 with the rear seats folded. If you are currently looking for a decent estate – then the i40 is the one I would take a closer look at.
Price (from) £26,230 as tested By Anthony Yates
