BABY GOT (FAST) BACK

Hyundai is doubling its i30 N performance range. The maker has unveiled the new Fastback version of its performance hero ahead of the car’s official debut at the 2018 Paris motor show in October. The Fastback brings the same punchy 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (202kW/353Nm) as its hatch sibling but serves-up more load carrying ability.

Hyundai has increased boot space to 450-litres compared to the hatch’s 381-litres — this increases to 1351-litres with the seats folded flat.

The Fastback gives buyers a point-of-difference in the hot hatch market, delivering five-door convenience with a stylish coupe-style silhouette. The Ford Mustang is the only other affordable vehicle which promotes a similar package.

The Fastback will score the same performance upgrades as the hatch variant including an electronic-mechanical limited slip differential, active exhaust and five driving modes.

Hyundai has given no indication that the new version will spawn an automatic variant meaning those adverse to a three-pedal layout will have to look elsewhere.

Inside the Fastback brings an eight-inch touchscreen with reversing camera and smartphone mirroring technology Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The second i30 N variant will be kitted out with a generous safety suite that includes autonomous emergency braking to help avoid or reduce frontal accidents, driver fatigue alert, lane keep assist and auto high beam.

The i30 N Fastback is due to land in Australia during the first quarter of 2019.

Prices won’t be revealed until closer to the vehicle’s launch date but it should be priced similar to the hatch variant which starts at $39,990 (before on-road costs).