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Introducing the Hyundai i30 N
The Hyundai i30 N is the brand's first proper performance car, and has been well-received by journalists and owners from the off.
It was undoubtedly bold of Hyundai to enter the hot hatchback market. After all, there is strong competition in this segment.
However, Hyundai have clearly invested heavily in their 'N Performance' division, which is being led by someone called Albert Biermann; a man with extensive experience developing performance cars.
Under Biermann's leadership, and with a chassis that has been developed at the legendary Nürburgring, the i30 N has turned out to be a firecracker from the off.
Engines and Performance
Following a mid-life facelift, the i30 N is now available with just one engine: a turbocharged 2.0-litre T-GDi petrol engine.
Engine power is rated at 276bhp, while an impressive 289lb ft is produced. With power distributed to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox or 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT), the i30 N can achieve the 0 to 62mph sprint in just 5.9 seconds. Opt for the DCT and this time reduces to just 5.4 seconds.
Maximising the available performance are a handful of desirable features. The first is Launch Control, which is a mode that allows the i30 N to accelerate quickly from a standstill by minimising wheelspin. The inclusion of rev-matching is a rewarding feature that blips the throttle on downshift, meaning the car remains stable under braking.
Fitted with an Active Variable Exhaust System, the i30 N is engineered to make you smile, with various pops and crackles making their presence known when driving.
Chassis and Handling
Weighing in at just 1,400kg, the i30 N offers an agile driving experience, which is further enhanced by the quick steering and strategically placed bracing.
Part of the i30 N's low kerbweight comes from features such as the 19-inch forged alloy wheels, which save 14.4kg versus the previously used cast wheels. Each car leaves the factory fitted with Pirelli P Zero performance tyres, meaning the i30 N produces immense levels of grip alongside a sharp turn-in.
Distributing the power of the i30N is a clever electronic limited slip differential. It constantly monitors the speed of each wheel through corners, and then spreads torque appropriately to eradicate understeer and maximise grip.
For the mid-life facelift, the i30N has benefitted from upgraded brakes. The calipers are finished in a striking red colour with the N logo taking centre stage.
Technology and Drive Modes
The Hyundai i30 N comes with five unique driving modes as part of its N Grin Control System, which include: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom
Eco mode is pretty self-explanatory, and is useful when you want to maximise fuel economy. Sport mode sharpens things up a bit, and is ideal for fast-road driving, while N mode is reserved for track because it maximises performance and reduces input from the onboard computers.
In addition to the above, you'll find a high-definition touchscreen in the centre of the dash, which provides rapid access to useful features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Within the system there is a Performance Driving Data System. It allows you to monitor your driving performance and optimise it based on the feedback from the car.
Driver aids and safety features include:
- Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
- Lane Follow Assist
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
i30 N Models
N Performance
Key features:
- 19" forged alloy wheels (wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tyres)
- Red brake calipers with N logo
- Heated front seats with lumbar support and memory function
- Automatic dimming rear view mirror
- Automatic headlights with dusk sensor
- Climate control with automatic de-fog system for front windscreen
- Cruise control
- Heated steering wheel
- Parking sensors - front and rear
- Parking system - rear camera and guidance system
- Touchscreen Satellite Navigation (10.25") including Live Services and Bluelink
- Wireless phone charging pod
- Active Variable Exhaust System
- Electronically Controlled Suspension
- Torque Vectoring
- Electronic Limited Slip Differential
Test drive the Hyundai i30 N
Head back 10 years, and the concept of a hot Hyundai would have risen a few eyebrows. However, times have changed, and the South Korean manufacturer has made one of the best in its class at the first attempt.
But then, with the resources they've invested and the leadership they've hired during the creation of the N Performance division, should we be surprised?
If you'd like to test drive the Hyundai i30 N for yourself (and we'd certainly recommend it), then you can contact your nearest Evans Halshaw Hyundai retailer to arrange a test drive. Alternatively, you can explore our latest offers on new examples.
