The i40 Tourer is Hyundai’s answer to the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. Recent revisions mean that the new i40 benefits from refreshed styling, upgraded engines, a new transmission, improved ride and handling, and a range of new safety and convenience features.

Hyundai’s European design team made a number of changes to the styling of New i40, notably the front grille and front bumper have been redesigned, along with reshaped front and rear lights.

The New i40 benefits from Hyundai’s efficient Blue Drive technologies across a choice of three engines; a 1.7-litre diesel with an output of 115PS with six speed manual transmission, a 1.7-litre diesel with an output of 141PS, available with either a six-speed transmission or seven speed DCT automatic.

Our 1.7 litre diesel 141 PS model felt quick enough for a family car, mustering a respectable 0-62 time of 12 seconds, and mated to the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission proved an effective combination. Not only does it offer improved fuel efficiency, but it’s an intuitive and responsive auto box to use, providing the driver a fully automatic operation or manual gear changes through paddles on the steering wheel for greater involvement and increased performance.

Technologies such as Integrated Stop & Go (ISG), alternator management system, and active front flaps help to further reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

For such a large car the i40 Tourer feels surprisingly nimble and agile around corners, meaning that twisty B-roads can be enjoyed with enthusiasm. The steering proves to be direct and accurate, if a touch on the light side.

Refinement and comfort also cut the mustard, with a smooth and compliant ride, while wind and road noise are well contained, too.

Step inside and you’re greeted by a swish and modern cabin that looks fresh and appealing, if not quite of the quality of a Volkswagen Passat. Being Korean, it comes very well specified, too. Even base spec models get alloys, Bluetooth, steering wheel controls, auto lights/wipers and air conditioning. This new SE model also boasts DAB radio, auto dimming rear view mirror, dual zone climate control with Auto De-fog, heated front seats, LED front fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, touchscreen satellite Navigation with rear view parking camera (incorporating guidance) and a 7 speaker (including subwoofer) audio system. The upgraded infotainment touchscreen offers improved functionality and new visualisation for better usability.

Despite the steeply raked roofline, the i40 has plenty of head room for its occupants in the rear. Talking of space, there’s plenty of it all round, along with a load of handy cubbies and a generous 533 litre boot, which extends to 1,719 litres with seats lowered – although these don’t fold completely flat and the width between the wheel arches isn’t as good as some competitors.

Of course, like all new Hyundai models, the i40 Tourer is backed up by Hyundai’s unique, Europe-only, Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty package. This care programme provides customers with a five-year warranty with no mileage limit, five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks.


Verdict:

A mid-life facelift has brought a fresher and more dynamic look to the Hyundai i40 Tourer and enhanced an already highly capable large family estate, with better efficiency and more equipment.

Tech spec:

Hyundai i40 Tourer SE Nav 1.7 CRDi Blue Drive
Price OTR: £23,650
Engine: 1.7-litre turbo diesel, 4 cylinder
Transmission: 7-speed DCT
Max power: 141 PS @4000 rpm
Max torque: 340 NM @ 1700-2500 rpm
0-62 mph: 12 seconds
Top Speed: 124 mph
Fuel economy: 56.5 mpg (combined)
CO2 Emissions: 114 g/km
VED Band: C