Hyundai I40
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a family car that offers excellent value without compromising on space or quality? The Hyundai I40 could be exactly what you need. This mid-size saloon and estate was designed to compete directly with established European rivals, offering Korean reliability and a generous warranty package. It’s the car for families who want practical transport with a premium feel at a sensible price.

The I40 made its mark by offering more space and equipment than you’d expect for the money. Available as both a four-door saloon and practical Tourer estate, it competes with cars like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia. The styling is clean and contemporary, with Hyundai’s fluidic sculpture design language giving it a distinctive appearance. Inside, you’ll find a cabin that feels more upmarket than the price tag suggests, with soft-touch materials and intuitive controls.

What sets the I40 apart is its combination of space, efficiency, and reliability. The diesel engines deliver impressive fuel economy, making it an ideal motorway cruiser for families or business users. The five-year warranty provides peace of mind that many European rivals can’t match. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it excels at being a dependable, comfortable, and practical family transport that won’t break the bank to buy or run.

What's the Hyundai I40 Like to Drive?

The Hyundai I40 prioritises efficiency and refinement over outright performance. The engine lineup focuses on diesel power, with the 1.7 CRDi units being the most popular choice. The 115hp version provides adequate performance for most drivers, delivering smooth acceleration and relaxed cruising. The 0-60mph time of around 11 seconds isn’t thrilling, but it’s perfectly suitable for family motoring and motorway driving.

Where the I40 really excels is in its composed and comfortable driving experience. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, soaking up bumps and road imperfections with ease. The steering is light and accurate, making parking straightforward despite the car’s size. On the motorway, the I40 feels stable and refined, with minimal wind or road noise penetrating the cabin. It’s a car that makes long journeys feel effortless, prioritising passenger comfort over driving thrills. The automatic transmission option adds to the relaxed driving experience, though it does impact fuel economy slightly.

Inside the Hyundai I40: Comfort & Features

Step inside the I40 and you’re greeted by one of the most spacious cabins in its class. The dashboard design is clean and functional, with easy-to-read instruments and intuitive controls. Materials feel solid and well-assembled, with soft-touch surfaces on key touchpoints. The driving position is excellent, with plenty of adjustment for the seat and steering wheel. Even taller drivers will find ample headroom and legroom.

Rear passengers are particularly well catered for, with generous legroom that exceeds many rivals. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making the I40 an excellent choice for long family journeys. Standard equipment is generous across the range, including air conditioning, electric windows, and a decent infotainment system. Higher specification models add features like heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and premium audio systems. The overall ambience feels more premium than the price suggests, helped by the excellent build quality and attention to detail.

The Hyundai I40 is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritise practicality, efficiency, and value over driving excitement. It delivers on its core promises of space, comfort, and economy with impressive competence. The interior quality exceeds expectations, and the generous warranty package provides confidence that few rivals can match. It’s a car that makes perfect sense for families and business users.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Hyundai I40?

The Hyundai I40 shines when it comes to running costs, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious families. The diesel engines are the star performers here, with the 1.7 CRDi Blue Drive models capable of achieving over 65 mpg in real-world driving. This translates to excellent range and low fuel bills, particularly beneficial for high-mileage drivers. Insurance groups are reasonable, typically ranging from groups 15 to 20.

The I40’s biggest advantage is its five-year unlimited mileage warranty, which provides excellent peace of mind and can help with resale values. Servicing costs are competitive, and Hyundai’s dealer network offers fixed-price servicing plans to help budget for maintenance. While the initial purchase price was competitive when new, used examples now offer exceptional value for money. The combination of low fuel costs, reasonable insurance, and that generous warranty makes the I40 one of the most cost-effective family cars available, especially when considering car finance options.

Is the Hyundai I40 Practical for Everyday Use?

The Hyundai I40 excels in practical terms, offering class-leading space and versatility. The saloon’s 505-litre boot is generous, easily accommodating family luggage or a weekly shopping trip. The Tourer estate extends this to 553 litres with the rear seats up, expanding to over 1,700 litres with them folded. The wide boot opening and low loading lip make it easy to load heavy items. Inside the cabin, there are numerous storage compartments for everyday items.

Family life is where the I40 really shines. The rear seats offer limousine-like legroom, making it comfortable for adults on longer journeys. Three child seats can fit across the back, and the large door openings make accessing child seats straightforward. For couples or families considering their options among used Hyundai cars, the I40 represents exceptional value. Its size and comfort make it ideal for growing families who need space but don’t want to move up to an SUV.

The Hyundai I40 stands out in the family car market by delivering exceptional value and practicality. It combines generous space, impressive fuel economy, and solid build quality into a package that makes real-world sense for families. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it excels in the areas that matter most for everyday motoring comfort, reliability, and running costs.

You choose the I40 because it represents sensible family motoring at its best. The spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and comprehensive warranty make it a smart financial choice. Whether you need the saloon’s refined looks or the estate’s ultimate practicality, the I40 delivers outstanding value. For families seeking dependable transport that won’t strain the budget, particularly among cars under £15,000, the I40 should be at the top of your shortlist.