New i30 N targets Golf GTI
Performance division’s new 271bhp i30 N sets sights on Golf GTI and Focus ST
Hyundai has officially revealed the i30 N, the first model from its N performance brand. Pitched by its maker as a rival to the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST, the i30 N has undergone a lengthy testing period, including more than 6000 miles at the Nürburgring, under the guidance of Albert Biermann, boss of the Korean firm’s high-performance arm.
The i30 N is powered by a 2.0-litre T-GDI turbocharged four-cylinder that drives the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. In standard form, the car produces 247bhp at 6000rpm and 260lb ft at 1450-4500rpm, enabling 0-62mph in 6.4sec.
An optional Performance Pack takes maximum power up to 271bhp, helping to trim the 62mph sprint time to 6.1sec – making the i30 N comfortably Hyundai’s quickest model. Even in its basic state of tune, the i30 N has more power than the VW Golf GTI and the same as the Focus ST.
Hyundai asserts that its first N car will be capable of withstanding long periods of hard driving on circuit. Its electronic stability control system that can be switched off, and i30 Ns with the performance package is equipped with an electronic limited slip differential.
Five driving modes – Eco, Normal, Sport, Sport N and N Custom – can be selected via two buttons on the steering wheel. Cycling through the driving modes adjusts the car’s the engine’s response and exhaust volume, damper stiffness, aggressiveness of the electronic stability control and e-diff and steering sensitivity. N Custom mode enables drivers to opt for opposing settings, such as allowing the car to run with the softest ride but harshest drivetrain mode. The i30 N also features a rev-matching system that blips the throttle when the driver clicks down through the gears, and launch control. The Performance
Package also incorporates a variable exhaust valve system. In the more sporting driving modes, the driver can select different exhaust sounds to make the car sound quieter or more powerful.
The i30 N evolves the fivedoor i30 hatchback’s design into its most aggressive form, with a cascading grille and new aerodynamic features at both the front and rear, including wider intakes and a rear diffuser, which reduces lift at speed. The i30 N is 4mm lower than the regular car and gets twin-exit exhausts at the back, along with 18in or optional 19in alloy wheels.
Along with its unique performance additions, including bolstered sports seats, the i30 N gets Hyundai’s highest-specification cabin technology. This includes a 5.0in (or optional 8.0in) touchscreen infotainment system with satnav and access to Hyundai’s Live online services. Smartphone connectivity can be handled by Google Carplay or Android Auto, while a wireless inductive charging pad can be added as an option.
Driver assist features include autonomous emergency braking, driver attention alert, lane keep assist and high beam assist technology. The i30 N can also recognise road signs and displays them in the car’s TFT instrument display cluster.
The i30 N will be launched by the end of 2017 and produced at Hyundai’s Czech plant in Nosovice. Prices have yet to be confirmed but are expected to start from about £25,000.
The i30 N is the first production car from the N performance brand, the existence of which was first announced in December 2013.