TODAY'S car buyers have wised up to the old trick of car makers throwing in loads of extras to mask an otherwise average model to increase its showroom appeal.
It's not just about flashy gizmos now, the educated motorist wants - and gets - sound dynamics, good handling and a strong all-round performance. A decade or so ago, a few Japanese manufacturers could rely on scooping sales with a bristling spec and the 'all-bells and whistles' approach. But not any more.
The current crop of value Japanese and Pacific Rim products measure up on all counts to their European rivals in terms of roadholding, handling and finish.
The Korean-made Hyundai i30 is a shining example. With its almost Astra-like front and rather BMW 1-Series tail, not only has it emulated some of the best of Europe in terms of appearance but it has taken a leaf out of their quality control book as well.
From the moment you open the door there's an impression of heavy duty build integrity. High grade plastics adorn the dash, the doors are solid and close with a reassuring 'thunk' and when it comes to refinement and driving ability, the five door i30 could have been badged VW, Ford or Vauxhall.
Of course, we have already seen the giant stride Hyundai have made with the current Santa Fe off-roader, so this should not come as any great surprise.
I drove the 1.6-litre CRDi version - a punchy 113bhp diesel - which is proving a winner with motorists who want to stretch the miles an minimal cost.
The test car, in Premium trim, costs £15,755 on the road, while the range kicks off at just £10,999 for the 1.4 petrol Comfort.
Even the base model includes front fog lights, air con, traction control, glovebox cooler and electric windows. The Premium adds leather trim and reversing sensors to the list. And it's worth bearing in mind that all Hyundais come with a five year warranty.
With a longer than average wheelbase for its class, the i30 is a generous four seater with space for five at a pinch.
The hatchback boot is deep and wide and can carry between 340 and 1,250 litres of luggage depending on whether the rear seat is folded or in position.
Plenty of use has been made of soft-touch plastics in the interior and there's loads of space for odds and ends including a flip up compartment on the dash.
Although I found it difficult sometimes to get the correct seat-rake adjustment which is set by a lever rather than a wheel which you can turn.
The official economy figure is an impressive 60.1mpg combined, hence the low emission level of 125g/km. Even if you're tempted into making most of the strong acceleration - 0 to 62mph in 11.6 seconds and 117mph maximum - the figure is likely to remain close to the 50mpg mark.
With a 113bhp to call on, the i30 CRDi has enough in reserve to make good progress in an effortless fashion. Its five speed gearbox is light and pleasantly precise. And cruising is quiet and unstressed.
There's no doubt that the new i30 ticks all the appropriate boxes when it comes to value, practicality and design. It's a bonus that it delivers real driving satisfaction as well without busting the bank.
FAST FACTS
Hyundai i30 1.6 CRDi Premium 5dr
Price: £15,755
Mechanical: 113bhp, 1,582cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 117mph
0-62mph: 11.6 secs
Combined mpg: 60.1
Insurance group: 6
CO2 emissions: 125g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 5yrs/ unlimited mileage, 6yrs paint, 6yrs anti-rust