The $44,990 standard comes with nine airbags, ABS and ESP, 16-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, cornering brake control, a speed limiter and static bending lights that help see round corners. The Elite adds a 4.2-inch thin film screen, front and rear park sensors and a reversing camera, keyless start and seat warmers front and rear, while the Elite Ltd tops the line-up at $59,990 and includes a panoramic sunroof, luggage rails, a powered tailgate, heated and cooled seats and heated steering wheel.
What we say
The spacious cabin of the i40 has pleasant materials, is nicely put together with good ergonomics and comfy seats. The boot varies from 553 litres with all the seats in use to 1719 and comes with a standard luggage net, the whole providing a comfortable environment for our extended launch drive.
On the road
The i40 handles well, with a ride compliant enough to cope with bumpy Coromandel back roads and a composure that will please most drivers. The steering feels slightly remote but you soon adjust, the whole engine-suspension-brakes package well able to compete in this class. The diesel is my pick, for what you lose in top-end power you gain in torque, with plenty of pull at almost any real-world speed you care to choose. There's not too much engine or road noise either.
Why you'll buy one
It's handsome, with generous specification and frugal engines.
Why you won't
Ford's Mondeo is slightly more talented.
