Hyundai i30 vs Ford Focus vs Opel Astra: which one is the best value for money?

As consumers lean more and more toward crossovers and SUVs, the C-segment hatch and sedan continue to go out of fashion. We take a look at some of the winners of yesteryear to see which model we would recommend.

Hatching a plan

The SUV may have made short work of the sedan but it has affected the C segment hatchback just as much. Very few automobile manufacturers still make these vehicles that were once so popular, rather favouring family crossovers and mid-size SUVs. Although there may not be many new models about, the used market is simply brimming with options.

We decided to take a look at some older models and pit them against each other with our pick of the bunch revealed at the end.

Practicality

The Opel Astra has the biggest dimensions all around and is the clear winner for space in the category of practicality. Even though it’s a smaller car than its predecessor, it manages to match its boot space. While it’s beaten by the Hyundai i30 for boot space, it still offers good size and is usefully shaped. Furthermore, it has reasonably sized door pockets and a wide interior allows for good shoulder room. Headroom is also generous for tall passengers and legroom is amazing for a car in this class, as it’s been known to match some bigger cars.

While the Ford Focus is not as roomy in the rear, it is a relatively spacious and airy car in the front. But there’s still more legroom to stretch out in the Astra, the i30 and even in the Golf which is another strong contender in this segment.

Practicality has been a highlight for the i30. Its boot space is fairly standard for a family car and its shape makes it easier to fit bulky loads in the back. It expands massively with the seats folded down. It doesn’t have class-leading space inside but occupants can travel in comfort. There are also several handy storage pockets all around the car for drinks, wallets and phones.

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Performance vs economy

On paper, when comparing 1.0-litres from each model, Ford not only has the most powerful engine, but it also has the lowest fuel economy here. The EcoBoost long-stroke three-cylinder 1.0-litre has been a several-time winner at the International Engine of the Year awards for the Best Engine under 1.0-litre. It continues to dominate its segment as its technology was designed to increase economy and reduce CO2 emissions by about 20%*, without compromising on the driveability.

The 1.0-litre’s low-end torque and considerably improved fuel economy is apparent in real driving as well and are not just on-paper figures. It has direct injection, variable timing for both inlet and exhaust camshafts, and a tiny, low-inertia turbocharger that can spin up to 248,000 rpm. The three-cylinder has been built in a way that feels smoother than some four-cylinders.

However, when considering a model in its entirety (taking into account all models in its line-up), the Astra has more potent engines, better power and torque outputs, and better gearboxes overall than the Focus and for that reason, we’re giving this one to the Astra as well.

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Warranty

Warranties are all pretty even between these three automakers, except that Hyundai offers a 7 year/200 000 km warranty on its powertrain and is the clear winner here.

Hyundai no longer offers the i30 new as of the end of 2018. At the time it was available, it was being sold with a 5 year/150 000 km Manufacturer’s Warranty; along with an additional 2 year/50 000 km Manufacturer’s Powertrain Warranty; 5 year/150 000 km Roadside Assistance; and a 5 year/90 000 km Service Plan.

Ford offered a 4 year/120 000km Comprehensive Warranty, 4 year/80 000km Service Plan, 3 year/unlimited km Roadside Assistance, and a 5 year/unlimited km Corrosion Warranty.

Opel offered a 5 year/120 000 km Warranty and Roadside Assistance, 5 year/90 000 km Service Plan and a 5 year/Unlimited Kilometres Anti-Corrosion Warranty.

Value for money

Our value pick between these 3 models goes to the Opel Astra. It is a stylish hatchback that’s well-equipped and also bigger than its rivals offering more cabin space. There’s also a good list of safety features and for these reasons, the Astra is excellent value.

Keyword: Hyundai i30 vs Ford Focus vs Opel Astra: which one is the best value for money?