2014 Hyundai i40 Style 1.7 CRDi

Summary:

Almost there!

Faults:

Clutch, ABS, oil leak.

Centre console buttons a bit hesitant to work.

General Comments:

Hyundai have stepped up their game in recent years as others have said. But the i40, if it wants to compete with rivals like Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia, they just need to put a little more effort in.

That said, the i40 is a fine car. Spacious, comfortable and good to drive. Style model a bit basic, but there is still plenty of kit. Good looking inside and out.

1.7 diesel engine is OK, plenty of torque, and does around 50 mpg.

If you are looking at Korean car alternatives in this class, the i40 is an OK choice, but the Kia Optima is slightly better; I have a friend with one of those, it is better to drive and has been more reliable and has a better quality feel to it. This i40 still feels a bit cheap in some areas. A Mondeo or Insignia is ultimately the better car however.

But all in all a decent car, can't complain too much, it has been OK to own. The only expensive issue was that clutch. The car has otherwise been reliable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 17th March, 2024

2017 Hyundai i40 BlueDrive S 1.7 CRDi

Summary:

Forget Hyundai of the past - this is a great car

Faults:

Just maintenance (services, tyres, brake pads, etc).

General Comments:

Easily as good as a Ford Mondeo or Vauxhall Insignia, this Hyundai i40 is a great car in this class. Smart, modern, capable and reliable, Hyundai have come a long, long way. No BMW or Mercedes contender, but this is a fine family or executive business car.

Love the exterior looks. My car is black, very nice wheels also. Interior is comfortable and plush even on this pretty basic "S" model. It has all the electrics you would expect from a 2017 car. Ride is quiet and smooth. Cup holder placement is a little awkward (drink touches your hand changing gear!); other than that I have no complaints.

1.7 CRDi "BlueDrive" turbo diesel is by no means fast, but I have averaged 60 mpg or a little more. Service costs are OK and tax is also cheap enough.

To finish, if you are after a family car in this segment, don't overlook the i40. Much of what I have said in this review could also apply to my previous 2013 Kia Optima - Korean cars have really stepped up their game in the last decade or so.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th January, 2023

5th Mar 2023, 21:50

The things I don't like about this model are the numb center steering wheel feeling on the road, the cheap suspension feeling - these shock absorbers also become very stiff in cold weather even at low miles, and finally the hard leather seats. Don't expect engaging handling.

Other than that, lots of leg room both from and rear, some panoramic roofs do explode without rea$$$on - better skip this option, BSD system is insanely expensive to fix and the radar units get off alignment easily, Hyundai AGM batteries don't last, Kumho tires are cheap and noisy, engine undertray large covers break easily and are uncivilized expensive.

In reply to 5th Mar 2023, 21:50

13th Mar 2023, 13:22

True, they are still a little under par by some car's standards, but here in the UK you can get good deals on these cars and they are just about as capable as any similar mainstream manufacturer that is more popular. Hyundai and KIA have both improved quality a lot lately.

In reply to 5th Mar 2023, 21:50

13th Mar 2023, 21:50

The AGM battery in my Hyundai gave up after five years. Was quoted anywhere from $230 to $430 for a replacement. On a whim I called the service department at my Hyundai dealership and asked if I could use a regular battery. He said yes absolutely... so bought one for $150... and no problems. Don’t fall for the “you need an AGM only“ line.