Turning up the heat
Hyundai i30 N update brings more power and pace
THREE YEARS AFTER UPSETTING THE hot hatch status quo with its superb i30 N Performance, Hyundai has revealed a mid-life update for the model, introducing increased engine outputs, some lighter components and the option of a dualclutch transmission.
Changes to the basic powertrain appear subtle at first glance, with the 2-litre ‘Theta’ engine picking up a 5bhp upgrade to 276bhp. However, torque has been given a much bigger uplift, with 307lb ft – an additional 28lb ft – now available over a much wider rev range (from 1950 to 4600rpm). This yields a 0.2sec reduction in the 0-62mph time, which is now pegged at 5.9sec, while top speed remains limited to 155mph. Drive is sent to the front wheels via either the standard six-speed manual or a new optional eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
This ‘wet’ dual-clutch transmission has been engineered specifically for the i30 N and comes with performance-boosting software that aims to compensate for the loss of driver connection that’s inevitable with any self-shifter. This starts with an NGS mode (short for ‘N Grin Shift’, and no we’re not joking) that will overboost the turbo for up to 20 seconds and won’t cut torque on upshifts, resulting in a pronounced jolt when changing gear. The ’box will also apply this full-torque upchange function on shifts with over 90 per cent throttle application regardless of mode. Meanwhile an ‘N Track Sense’ function causes the auto mode to hold on to the optimum gear when it senses the car is being driven on a circuit.
Amongst the fresh exterior details, Hyundai has fitted new forged 19-inch wheels, which as a set are 14.4kg lighter than the 18-inch units on the nonperformance i30 N, a derivative that will no longer be available in the UK. As before, rubber is of a bespoke Pirelli P Zero variety. The adaptive damper and steering calibrations have been subtly retuned, and there’s an additional stabiliser bar for the rear of the chassis. The valved exhaust system remains, albeit finished with a chunkier pair of exhaust tips.
Inside there are new bucket seats that save 2kg per chair, a fresh infotainment interface and, for the dual-clutch car, a pair of chunky shift paddles, but elements such as the excellent steering wheel and analogue dial set are left alone.
Pricing will be confirmed closer to the updated car’s arrival in early 2021.