From Towcar Awards 2008

List price: £14,075 (when tested)
Kerbweight: 1517kg
85% Match: 1289kg
Max towing weight: 1600kg
Towball limit: 75kg

DON’T BE surprised to see a resemblance between the Hyundai i30 and the Kia Cee’d. These are largely the same car, but the i30 has a lower price and a smaller 1.6-litre diesel engine. Even so, it’s not much slower than the Kia, taking just one more second to go from 30-60mph.

The performance through the lane-change test was more disappointing: the back of the car moved around as it was pushed and shoved by the caravan. At a steady 60mph, the i30 felt much more secure.

Spacious boot

The Hyundai has a spacious boot, so most of our luggage could fit inside. It was pleasing to see a 12V socket, too.

Low running costs also mean it’s easy on your wallet. The official combined economy figure of 57.6mpg is the equal best of any car in this year’s tests.

We say

Towing: 3/5
Solo: 3/5
Practicality: 3/5
Buying & owning: 4/5

Verdict: 3/5. A solid all-rounder. Very cheap to buy and run.

Braking 30-0mph: 11.80m