We review the Hyundai i30 (2007) from price to economy and all its features
And it is further proof the Korean car makers now match the standards of their European and Japanese rivals.
Hyundai say this is the most important car they have ever launched in Europe. But even last years excellent Santa Fe 4x4 showed that UK buyers were now willing to pay more than £20,000 for a Hyundai.
Whatever area you compare the i30 with its rivals, it now stands favourable comparison, starting with the all important styling.
Hyundais used to be cheap and cheerful in the style department but they now look the part.
I like the understated but elegant lines of the i30, its clean face and the sharp rear end with its prominent tail lights. Inside you will find an even bigger transformation, with a smart dash and centre console that is easy on the eye.
A small but significant breakthrough is Hyundai finally switching the indicator and windscreen wiper stalks from Korean to UK format, which means no more the wipers on when you actually want to indicate right.
i30 buyers will get a very well equipped car, even with the entry level version. It comes with air con, alloy wheels, integrated steering wheel controls for the radio/CD player, and electric/heated windows as standard.
Move up to the Style trim and the list lengthens to 16in alloys, charcoal cloth and leather seats, leather steering wheel and tyre pressure monitoring system, while the flagship Premium trim gets full leather seats, individual climate control, electric folding mirrors and reversing sensors.
The i30 is also big on interior space for five occupants, along with useful boot space of 340 litres that increases to 1,250 litres with the split-folding rear seats flat.
Safety is another strong point, with six airbags as standard and electronic stability control that balances power and braking in bad conditions.
Hyundai have been making big strides in the driving dynamics of their cars, particularly in strengthening their engine line-up.
You can select from 1.4litre and 1.6litre petrol engines. But it will be the 1.6 and 2litre turbo diesels that will attract most buyers, with 60 and 51.4mpg.
In fact the only area that felt average in my test car was a slightly notchy six-speed gearbox, but that apart the i30 was a very competent drive.
It will also be cheap to insure with insurance groups ranging from four to eight, while Hyundais five year warranty is the peace of mind lost of motorists are looking for.
Which only leaves price as a possible factor, and here the i30 is even more competitive. The price range is competitive, starting at £10,995 for the 1.4litre petrol, £12,995 for the 1.6 diesel and the fully equipped Premium 2litre diesel is good value at £16,595.
The i30 underlines Hyundai are no longer just a value-for-money brand but a firm going places fast - and in some style.