Hyundai i40 saloon (2011-2019) - Engines, drive & performance

The i40 is quite good to drive, and while it can’t match the handling of some rivals such as the Ford Mondeo or Skoda Superb, it should suit many drivers down to the ground. The steering is generally accurate but does have some odd moments that make the i40 feel strangely cumbersome when driving through some corners. The suspension is generally pleasingly soft and if you choose the optional sports setup, the ride is harder but never uncomfortable, even on rough roads. So while the i40 will never be the keen driver’s choice, most buyers should find it very satisfactory. It’s particuarly good at quiet and soothing long-distance cruising on the motorway.

Hyundai i40 diesel engine

The 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine offers a good blend of efficiency and performance. It comes in 113 or 139bhp versions, which accelerate the car from 0-62mph in 12.8 or 10.3 seconds respectively. As the more powerful engine doesn’t cost any more to tax than the less powerful choice, we think it’s the obvious choice. Having previously been a specific model, Hyundai’s efficiency-boosting Blue Drive package now comes with all i40s. This suite of features includes stop-start technology to increase fuel economy. In terms of the transmission, we’d recommend sticking with the manual gearbox, despite a DCT automatic gearbox that’s nicer to use and more efficient than Hyundai’s previous automatic transmission.

Petrol engine

Hyundai previously offered petrol engines with the i40, but poor sales led to their withdrawal from the UK market some time ago. The diesel was always the better choice anyway, and his decision brought the Hyundai into line with rivals such as the VW Passat and Peugeot 508, which are also only available with diesel power.