Hyundai's Compact Wagon Surprises With an Uncommon Third Facelift | Carscoops

      The robust i30 is preparing for a third facelift, expected to focus on enhancements to its interior and technology.

      Recent sightings of a camouflaged Hyundai i30 during testing indicate that a third redesign is in progress.

      The exterior changes seem minimal, but there may be updates to the cabin that include a new digital cockpit.

      This refresh could extend the lifespan of the compact ICE model beyond the typical timelines in the industry.

      While Hyundai’s lineup is currently dominated by SUVs and crossovers, they continue to support traditional sedans. The i30 serves as evidence of this, being available in hatchback, fastback, and wagon formats in international markets. This generation has been in circulation since 2016, and Hyundai appears keen to prolong its lifespan with another facelift.

      Interestingly, the i30 has undergone two previous updates: a significant one in 2020 and a more minor refresh in 2024. Now, spy photographers have captured what looks to be a third redo, particularly for the wagon version, known as the i30 Tourer. The camouflaged prototype was seen near Hyundai’s European R&D center in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

      The prototype's bodywork was heavily camouflaged, but it clearly appears to be based on the Hyundai i30 Tourer with the optional N Line package. The full-LED headlights and taillights seem to be retained from the first facelift, while the 18-inch alloy wheels are those introduced in the second facelift. The bumpers look almost identical to the current version, although there may be subtle changes hidden underneath the camouflage.

      Although the interior wasn’t clearly visible, an open door revealed that the dashboard is also camouflaged, indicating that Hyundai may be prepping a new digital cockpit to align it with their newer models.

      The prototype has a single tailpipe, in contrast to the typical dual setup found in N Line trims. In Europe, the i30 family has a powertrain selection that includes three options: a base naturally aspirated 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 95 hp (71 kW / 96 PS), a mild-hybrid turbo 1.0-liter generating 99 hp (74 kW / 100 PS), and a mild-hybrid turbo 1.5-liter producing 138 hp (103 kW / 140 PS).

      It’s likely that the new facelift will introduce minor updates, potentially including revised engines to comply with more stringent emissions regulations. This need for compliance was also why the i30 N was discontinued in Europe in 2024, ending the tenure of the 276-hp turbo 2.0-liter engine in that market.

      If Hyundai adheres to its timeline, the updated i30 could launch in 2026, which will mark a decade since this generation was first introduced. This would likely keep it in dealerships for another two or three years before the company evaluates its future. Hopefully, a new generation will emerge to compete with the forthcoming Volkswagen Golf.