Hyundai is working on another facelift for the i30 family, in a quest to keep it relevant for a few more years against newer competitors. Following earlier sightings of the hatchback and fastback models, our spy photographers spotted not one but two camouflaged prototypes of the i30 wagon, confirming it will remain part of the facelifted range.
The wagons came with different amounts of camouflage, with an i30 hatchback driving between them. Hyundai engineers realized that the profile of the vehicle doesn’t need to be covered as it is carried over from its predecessor. As with the rest i30 models, visual updates will be focused on the front end, which is set to receive a redesigned bumper and tweaked grille. The LED graphics appear to be identical to the high-spec trims of the current model, although they could get further tweaks later in the process and before the unveiling takes place.
More: Facelifted i30 N Proves Hyundai Hasn’t Forgotten About ICE Thrills
SH Proshots
The rear end of the wagon is also purposely covered even though the taillights seem to be unchanged. Hopefully, Hyundai designers will find ways to freshen up the looks of the stretched rear overhang, as the i30 wagon is probably the least visually pleasing compared to the hatchback and the fastback.
The mild exterior tweaks could be joined by some work inside the cabin, likely including an upgraded infotainment and digital cockpit bringing the i30 closer to its rivals in terms of technology. As for the powertrains, we wouldn’t be surprised if Hyundai gave more emphasis to the electrified options including mild-hybrids and a possible self-charging hybrid that would be a first for the i30. Thankfully, the performance-focused i30 N hatchback and fastback are also expected to be facelifted, although we don’t know how the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine will make it past the upcoming Euro 7 regulations.
While wagons are significantly less popular than SUVs, there are a lot of carmakers that keep them alive in the compact segment. Rivals of the updated Hyundai i30 wagon include models like the VW Golf Variant, Seat Leon Sportstourer, Peugeot 308 SW, Opel Astra Sports Tourer, Ford Focus Estate, and Toyota Corolla Touring Sports.
The facelifted Hyundai i30 range is expected to debut sometime in late 2023 or early 2024. Note that the second generation of the i30 was originally introduced in 2016, with the first facelift following in 2020. Earlier this year, Hyundai pledged to keep the i30 alive for another generation, debunking earlier rumors about a possible discontinuation in favor of EVs.
