Fit II (GE) vs i30 I (FD): which is better?
Honda Fit II (GE) (2007–2013) vs Hyundai i30 I (FD) (2007–2012): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai i30 I (FD)Specifications
| Honda Fit II (GE) | Hyundai i30 I (FD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2007–2013 | 2007–2012 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.3 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 100 hp | 122 hp |
| Torque, up to | 127 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 3 900 mm | 4 245 mm |
| Width | 1 695 mm | 1 775 mm |
| Height | 1 525 mm | 1 480 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 500 mm | 2 650 mm |
| Fuel tank | 42 L | 53 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 8 650 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Honda Fit II (GE)
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Honda L13/L15 engine: worn engine mounts
- Honda CVT: jerks when pulling away as it wears
- Small fuel tank: 42 L
Engine (Honda L13/L15): few widespread problems; worn engine mounts.
Gearbox (Honda CVT): jerks when pulling away once worn; bearing wear.
Hyundai i30 I (FD)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Which one to choose
- Fit II (GE) — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
- i30 I (FD) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Fit II (GE) or i30 I (FD)?
Fit II (GE): up to 100 hp, i30 I (FD): up to 122 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Fit II (GE) — about 8 650 ₸, i30 I (FD) — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.