Top performer

The i30 N is the first performance model ever produced by Hyundai, writes Darren Cassey. It introduces the N branding that’s been on the South Korean manufacturer’s motorsport models for a few years into the road car market.

It’s entering the hot hatch segment dominated by the likes of the everyday-usable Volkswagen Golf GTI and Seat Leon Cupra, which it is priced to tackle. There’s an entry-level model as well as a Performance variant, which gets more power and kit – and, at £27,995, looks a potential lower-cost alternative to so-called mega hatches such as the Honda Civic Type R.

The N has all the practicality of the standard i30. However, the changes are wholesale – in the words of Albert Biermann, head of Hyundai’s performance division, they didn’t just “put a big engine in and be done with it”.

In the Performance model, the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine makes a healthy 271bhp and 353Nm of torque (which increases to 378Nm for up to eight seconds at full throttle). This puts it on a par with its rivals, but some way short of the £30,000-plus hot hatches for which 300bhp is the norm.

There are various drive modes – normal and eco feel rather pointless as sport is fine for most circumstances. The crumbling tarmac on our Italian test route highlighted a stiffly sprung car that quickly settled. However, flick the switch to N and it comes alive – throttle response is immediate. Pops and crackles from the exhaust add extra theatre.

Hyundai has moved its game on dramatically, meaning its interiors aren’t far behind more established European rivals. N-specific extras such as the steering wheel and sports seats are welcome.

Whether you go for the Performance or the £24,995 entry-level model, there’s a decent level of equipment such as an 8in touchscreen, LED lights and adaptive cruise control. The Performance has electronically controlled limitedslip differential, 19in alloy wheels with Pirelli P-zero tyres, and leather and suede upholstery.