The Hyundai i30 N is the brand's first attempt at a performance hatchback, but they have come out fighting. Based upon the i30, the N is to offer hot hatch performance to rival the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Peugeot 308 GTi, and Ford Focus ST.
Update:
There are two distinct flavors of i30 N. The entry-level car, producing 247 hp from its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, will do 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) in 6.4 seconds. If that isn’t quite enough to quench your thirst for power, then 271 hp can be mustered from the same unit if you opt for the Performance Pack. The dash to 62 mph then shrinks to 6.2 seconds with launch control engaged. Both cars churn out 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque and will reach a top speed of 155 mph (250 kph).
Hyundai say that over 10,000 km (6,213 miles) of testing at the Nürburgring has allowed engineers to design the i30 N with track punishment in mind. An electronic differential aims to prevent the car from running wide, whilst its six-speed manual transmission features rev matching to ensure the perfect shifts. Five selectable drive modes change the car's temperament. Eco, Normal, Sport, and N mode alters the dampers, steering weight, and throttle responsiveness. N Custom allows you to tailor the i30 N to how you like it.
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Other things of note include a lower ride height than the regular i30 and a new variable valve exhaust. The exhaust can be made to sound more aggressive at the push of a button and promises WRC-inspired pops and bangs.
Wearing its unique WRC derived Performance Blue paint, it doesn’t look as attention-seeking as a Civic Type R. That said, its lower ride height and detailed bodywork make it look purposeful. A prominent trunk-mounted spoiler increases downforce whilst large vents improve cooling.
Inside you will find bolstered sports seats for those in the front along with a chunky steering wheel. The Hyundai i30 N is still practical though with three decent seats in the back and a big trunk. The center console houses a five-inch touchscreen display as standard, but this can be increased to eight inches if you wish.
Pricing has yet to be announced, but we would expect it to undercut key competitors such as the Golf GTI. You can expect to see the Hyundai i30 N on the road later this year. Sadly, it's not coming to the United States.
Source: Hyundai
Gallery: Hyundai i30 N Revealed
Exhilarating driving pleasure for everyone – The Hyundai i30 N
- The i30 N marks a new era for Hyundai Motor – introducing the first high-performance model under the N line up, built to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure for everyone
- N was born in Namyang and honed at the Nürburgring. The ‘N’ symbolises a chicane, the essence of Hyundai Motor’s high-performance car development
- High power: the four-cylinder 2.0-litre T-GDI turbo engine delivers up to 275 PS and 353 Nm torque with high responsiveness and linear power output
- High-performance features: Electronic Limited Slip Differential, Electronic Controlled Suspension, Rev Matching, Launch Control, high-performance tyres, lap timer, and more
- High level of customisation: five different drive modes, including the N and N Custom modes, offer variety of different configurations from comfort-oriented daily commuting to race track performance
- Emotional sound thanks to a variable exhaust valve system
- True performance design: aggressive front and rear bumpers with larger air intakes and red character line, aerodynamic rear spoiler with triangular brake light, dual muffler exhaust, 18- and 19-inch wheels, sport seats, Performance Blue exterior colour inspired by Hyundai Motorsport
Built on the New Generation i30, the i30 N has been developed from the ground up to deliver maximum driving pleasure in everyday life on the road, as well as on the track. N was born in Namyang, at Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in Korea, and honed at the Nürburgring, one of the most challenging race tracks in the world and home of Hyundai’s Testing Center. The N logo symbolises a chicane, the ultimate corner where the i30 N has been tested thoroughly and has proven its ability. The i30 N is inspired by Hyundai Motorsport’s experience in WRC since 2014.
Albert Biermann Executive Vice President Performance Development and High Performance Vehicle DivisionThe Hyundai i30 N has been developed for no other purpose than to deliver maximum driving fun to our customers in an accessible high-performance package. With the high-performance N models we will enhance our brand’s appeal with emotional products that cater to the needs of people who love to have a smile on their face when they drive their car on a winding road and listen to the sound of the engine. That’s why we measure high-performance in BPM, heart beats per minute instead of only RPM.
The i30 N is Hyundai Motor’s answer to emerging customer preferences towards uncompromising innovation and technology-driven performance. Due to be launched across Europe by the end of 2017, the All-New i30 N is made for people to experience a contented grin when driving a performance car. Part of the i30 range, the i30 N sports a unique character and coherent, timeless design – including the Cascading Grille at the front, the new Hyundai signature, which is characterised by a downward tapering gesture inspired by the flow of molten steel.
Focused on Fun to Drive
The i30 N has been developed on the basis of three corner stones under the theme ‘Fun to Drive’: Corner Rascal, Everyday Sports Car and Race Track Capability.
The i30 N has been developed to make the driver’s heart beat faster when he or she gets behind the wheel. Instead of focusing on pure numbers, Hyundai Motor has chosen to emphasise driving pleasure and the emotional impact on the driver’s heartbeats per minute (BPM), rather than simply measuring revs per minute (RPM). When the driver hits the throttle and shifts through the gears, the Rev matching function supports smooth gear shifting, while the overboost function increases torque (+8%) and acceleration (+6-7%). The feeling is enhanced by the car’s emotional sound from the dual muffler exhaust featuring the variable exhaust valve system. The cockpit of the i30 N shows key performance parameters through the new instrument cluster and the 8-inch free-floating screen’s modes such as the G-Force meter for live tracking of the performance.
The design is based on true high-performance vehicles and includes Hyundai’s Cascading Grille at the front, aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers, and a new rear spoiler. According to the principle “form follows function”, the car design enhances aerodynamic and cooling performance. Its operation focuses on the pure connection between the car and the driver. The i30 N is built around the driver for maximum responsiveness, balanced performance and fun to drive.
Corner Rascal
The i30 N loves corners. The N logo symbolises a chicane, the ultimate part of the track where the i30 N achieves maximum traction, precision and feeling. The powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivers up to 275 PS and 353 Nm torque. It offers direct response with a linear power development through the early responding turbo charger. It features front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission.
The i30 N’s maximum grip is guaranteed by the 18-inch Michelin or 19-inch Pirelli high-performance Hyundai N tyres. The rack-mounted motor-driven power steering is very direct and offers high precision. The lowered body is rigid and in combination with the Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) reduces roll and enhances cornering speed, enabling the driver to adjust the dampers from comfort-oriented daily commuting to high-performance track-driving.
The i30 N is aerodynamically designed to reduce lift to keep the body firmly on to the road when maximum traction is required. The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) enhances grip and delivers maximum power to the road. For the real enthusiasts the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched off completely for maximum freedom. In order to give the driver and passenger the maximum comfort, the exclusively developed N sport seats offer maximum stability and lateral support in all driving situations.
Everyday Sports Car
The i30 N is an everyday sports car, suitable for daily commuting in comfort on weekdays or for race track performance on the weekend. By offering a great variety of customisation options, the i30 N is a well-balanced hatchback, offering performance and practicality to create the best feeling for the driver. There are five drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom settings, which can be selected by using two dedicated buttons on the steering wheel. The different modes change the character of the car, adjusting the high-performance parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD), sound, steering and Rev matching. Additionally, the driver can select the Rev matching button on the steering wheel to increase the revs on the engine when shifting from a higher to a lower gear, while the car’s Launch Control helps to launch the car as easy as possible by controlling engine torque.
Race Track Capability
In the development of the vehicle, durability and racetrack performance were key elements. The i30 N has undergone 10,000 km of driving on the Nordschleife at the Nürburgring circuit for durability testing. The car has also taken part twice in the world’s toughest endurance test, the ADAC 24-hours race on the Nürburgring. The engine and its components have been tested for total vehicle evaluation in 2016 and for ensuring its overall race track capability in 2017. Thus, when taking the i30 N to a track day, the driver can be sure that the car’s performance will endure. Its brakes have been developed to last with an extra cooling function through the air intakes on the front bumper. The Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) allows the driver to adjust the i30 N to best suit a race track’s requirements. The body’s high rigidity is increased by the rear stiffness bar behind the rear seats. The car features a strong clutch that is built to last, while the precise six-speed manual transmission has short travel to enhance fast shifting.
The i30 N will be produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech in Nošovice (HMMC). The facility opened in 2008 and started production of the first generation i30 the same year. It has an annual production capacity of 350,000 cars and fulfils the highest quality standards to meet European customers’ expectations. The HMMC facility also features a 3.3 km open test track on the factory grounds, ensuring that every vehicle is tested for dynamic properties, noise and functions, along with a full underbody check for fluid leakage and correct assembly.
Each component used in the i30 N makes Hyundai Motor’s first high-performance vehicle more agile and dynamic. This is what the Hyundai N line up stands for: The N-badged Hyundai focuses on taking the vehicle beyond its role of being just a means of transportation. It offers the customer the thrill and excitement of driving a high-performance car and becoming one with the car as it moves through corners at speed.
It sports unique high-performance design elements such as aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers and a new rear spoiler, paired with the coherent, timeless design of the i30 range. According to the principle “form follows function”, designers worked closely with aerodynamic specialists to define the right ratio between the car’s downforce, drag and aerodynamics to create the best possible driving experience. The resulting lowered body together with the newly designed aerodynamics give the car its sporty silhouette and strong stance, while enhancing road balance and race track capabilities.
Exterior Design
The i30 N features an increased wheel arch with 18-inch wheels or unique 19-inch wheels, carrying the N logo. Compared to the five-door version, the i30 N is 4 mm lower with 18-inch wheels and 8 mm lower with 19-inch wheels. The N signature can also be found on the striking red brake callipers as well as on the Cascading Grille at the front. It denotes clearly where the model originates and increases the sense of high performance.
At the front, the i30 N also maintains its sporty, aggressive appearance through the black bezel of the headlamps. At the rear, the triangular third brake light in the new glossy black spoiler and the double muffler exhaust underline the eye-catching look of the sports hatchback.
As the front bumper features the prominent Cascading Grille, particularly stressed through the red insert, the emotional appearance and strong character of the car are once again highlighted. Fresh-air inlets on both sides of the car’s front bumpers enhance the brake cooling and aerodynamics with the horizontal LED daytime running lights positioned on top. Behind the Cascading Grille, additional air curtains offer further performance by enhancing air flow, reducing turbulence in the wheel housing and cooling the engine more effectively. The front splitter and the rear wing spoiler create downforce and an excellent aero-balance.
Interior Design
The interior is focused on connecting the driver with the car at all touch points. The concept is dedicated to the people who truly love cars. The exclusive “N” steering wheel ensures that the driver is in 100% control of all driving performance features directly by hand. On the left side of the steering wheel, drivers can select three standard drive modes: Normal, Sport and Eco. On the right, the driver has direct access to the chequered flag N button for the N-mode, or the customised setting which is visible on the navigation screen. For better engine control driving gear shifting, drivers can activate the Rev matching control system by using the decicated rev button just above the N button. The steering wheel is manufactured with the N unique blue stitching and garnished with an N logo at the bottom. The gear shift also features a unique blue stripe as part of the coherent colour design. On top, the ball-type knob bears the N-badge.
The electronic instrument cluster is specifically made for passionate drivers. The shift timing indicator positioned at the top centre of the cluster indicates when to shift gears for optimal race track driving performance. The red zone of the variable LED rev-counter changes according to the driving performance and varies with the engine’s oil temperature. Both the rev-counter and the speedometer are distinctively designed in accordance with the N line up, being surrounded by a blue lightning line.
The i30 N features uniquely designed high-performance sport seats with powerful lumbar support. Extendable seat cushions further enhance stability and comfort for the driver and front passenger. Customers can choose from a combination of suede and leather or cloth. Both versions feature the outstanding, stamped N logo on the back rest.
High-performance colour range
Because of Hyundai Motor’s motor sport heritage, the unique Performance Blue colouring was introduced with the start of its WRC engagement in 2014 and has represented the N line up ever since.
The i30 N comes with the exclusive Performance Blue paint. Altogether, customers can choose from six different exterior colours. Besides Performance Blue, the range includes Clean Slate, Polar White, Micron Grey and Phantom Black or Engine Red.
The special side sills enhancing the sporty character of the lowered body are painted in Black, while the outside mirrors come with a Glossy Black painting. As the handles are coloured in the same way as the body of the car, they almost disappear, creating a more dynamic look.
High-quality interior materials and dark metal inserts underline the elegant character of the i30 N and its affiliation with the motor sport sector.
State-of-the-art high-performance technologies can be effectively combined to provide a smooth and controlled ride. The key high-performance features are segment-leading for Hyundai Motor’s first N model and can be chosen individually by the driver depending on the driving mood.
Steering sytem
The i30 N offers a new level of precision in its steering, delivering great value to the driver: its rack-mounted motor driven power steering system (R-MDPS) provides stability to the vehicle at high speeds and makes the car instantly responsive at lower speeds. The electric steering assist system located in the steering gear offers very high output and is designed even for track day driving with cup tires.
Launch Control
The i30 N’s Launch Control controls engine torque when starting from the standstill, helping to launch the car like a professional race driver. Launch Control can be effectively used in N drive mode: with the off-switched Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the clutch disengaged, the first gear can be engaged immediately by releasing the clutch pedal within five seconds after full throttle acceleration.
Rev matching
Rev matching automatically adjusts the revs on the engine when the driver shifts from a higher to a lower gear. Consequently, depending on the drive mode, it allows smoother or sportier downshifts. The Rev matching button can be switched on easily by hand as it is located on the right side of the steering wheel.
Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS)
By controlling the damping force, ride and handling and stability are both enhanced. Depending on the driving conditions, from daily trips to circuit driving, the vehicle’s performance can be adjusted. The use of a solenoid valve guarantees a precise and immediate damping force control. It allows the driver to influence the stiffness of the suspension with the push of a button.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system stabilises the vehicle during cornering manoeuvres. If desired, the ESC can be switched off completely for maximum race track feeling.
Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) (with Performance Package)
The strong cornering ability of i30 N is achieved by different new performance features, such as the Electronically-Controlled Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD). This allows driven wheels to turn at different speeds by applying different amounts of torque depending on the load transfer from the inner to the outer front axle wheel. Wheel slip in specific conditions is reduced and understeering on cornering minimised. E-LSD increases the maximum cornering speed and the fun to drive through corners from turning to early wind corner acceleration.
Electronic Sound Generator (ESG)
To provide the inside of the i30 N with a real high-performance experience, a sporty engine sound is produced by the Electronic Sound Generator in the body panel. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen,an engine sound generator which provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver.
Variable Exhaust Valve System (with Performance Package)
Depending on the drive mode, the customer can select different exhaust sounds and thus manage to actively control the exhaust valve. The sound differs with the size of the valve opening. The twin-outlet active exhaust has several settings, allowing the car to increase the amount of exhaust sound from normal to decidedly powerful.
Driving Modes
Drivers can choose from five individual drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom settings, which can be activated by using the two dedicated buttons on the steering wheel. The different modes change the character of the car, adjusting the parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD), engine sound, steering and Rev matching. In the N Custom mode, drivers can select from Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings for each high-performance component to match driving preferences and road conditions.
| Components | Drive Mode Button Eco / Normal / Sport |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Settings | |
| Engine response | ECO / NORMAL / SPORT |
| Rev Matching | OFF / NORMAL / SPORT |
| Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) | NORMAL / NORMAL / SPORT |
| Exhaust sound (after-fire sound & variable exhaust sound)* | ECO / NORMAL / SPORT |
| Chassis Settings | |
| Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) | NORMAL / NORMAL / SPORT |
| Steering | NORMAL / NORMAL / SPORT |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | NORMAL / NORMAL / NORMAL |
| Components | N Button N Mode / N Custom |
|---|---|
| Powertrains Settings | |
| Engine response | SPORT+ / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ |
| Rev Matching | SPORT+ /OFF - NORMAL - SPORT-SPORT+ |
| Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) | SPORT / NORMAL-SPORT |
| Exhaust sound (after-fire sound & variable exhaust sound)* | SPORT+ (with After-fire sound) / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ |
| Chassis Settings | |
| Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) | SPORT+ / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ |
| Steering | SPORT+ / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | SPORT / NORMAL - SPORT - OFF |
Powerful Performance Package
The i30 N is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine available with two power outputs: the Standard Package engine delivers 250 PS, whereas the Performance Package engine's maximum power is boosted to 275 PS. Both outputs deliver a maximum torque of 353 Nm and reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h. The 250 PS version accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds*, the 275 PS version in 6.1 seconds*.
The engine offers direct response with a linear power development through the early responding turbo charger, and is available with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. The power is transferred independently to the gear train, in order to always be ready to shift to the next gear without any torque interruption.
The i30 N with Performance Package exclusively comes with 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero high-performance Hyundai N tyres, distinctive red N break calipers and larger brake discs (18-inch at the front, 17-inch at the rear). The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) and Variable Exhaust Valve System are additional features included in the Performance Package to provide the optimal race track experience.
The i30 N driving modes can be displayed on the 5.0-inch or the optional 8.0-inch touch screen with navigation featuring information on PS, torque, turbo boost as well as a lap and acceleration timer.
The specific N mode screen menu also offers customisable settings for the engine, suspension, steering, differential (in the Performance Package), transmission Rev matching, exhaust sound and stability control.
The i30 N includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both systems enable users to connect their devices to deliver and control music, telephone or navigation functions on-screen. Seamless connectivity allows drivers and passengers to stay connected while remaining focussed on the road. Hyundai Motor also offers a wireless inductive charging pad for mobile phones (Qi standard) and seven-year free subscription to LIVE Services. LIVE Services offer updated information in real time: weather, traffic, speed cameras and online searches for points of interest.
Class-leading safety package
By offering the latest active safety features for the new i30 N, Hyundai Motor democratises technology like the other i30 body types.
The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) fitted in the i30 N operates in three stages using camera sensors. First, it warns the driver visually and audibly. In a second step, it controls the brakes according to the collision danger stage, and in a third stage applies maximum braking force to avoid a collision or minimise damage if a collision is unavoidable.
With the Driver Attention Alert (DAA), the i30 N features a driver protection system: this monitors driving patterns in order to detect reckless or fatigued driving and prevent potential accidents.
The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) senses the car’s position and alerts the driver about unsafe movements at speeds over 60 km/h. By audibly and visually warning the driver before inducing corrective steering, it guides the driver back to a safe position.
Road speed signs are immediately recognised by the Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF), which displays the speed limit in real time. The navigation system display and the TFT cluster both show the information. A
High Beam Assist (HBA) detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles in the same lane ahead at night and changes to low-beam lights as appropriate, thereby reducing blinding effects on other drivers. HBA automatically re-activates the high beams and therefore maximises the driver’s range of vision as soon as no vehicles are detected.
| GASOLINE: THETA 2.0 T-GDI (250PS) | |
|---|---|
| Type | THETA 2.0 T-GDI, 16-valve MLA, DOHC E-CVVT |
| Capacity | 1998 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 86.0 x 86.0 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Power | 250 PS (184 kW) @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 353Nm @ 1,450 - 4000 rpm |
| Maximum speed (km/h) | 250 |
| 0-100 km/h (seconds)* | 6.4 |
| GASOLINE: THETA 2.0 T-GDI with Performance Package (275PS) | |
|---|---|
| Type | THETA 2.0 T-GDI, 16-vlave MLA, DOHC E-CVVT |
| Capacity | 1998 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 86.0 x 86.0 mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Power | 275 PS (202 kW) @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 1,450 - 4700 |
| Maximum speed (km/h) | 250 |
| 0-100 km/h (seconds)* | 6.1 |
Transmissions
Gasoline engines - speeds
| Engine | 2.0 T-GDI (250 PS) / 2.0 T-GDI (275 PS) |
|---|---|
| Manual | 6 / 6 |
Gear rations
| THETA 2.0 T-GDI 250PS / 275PS | |
|---|---|
| 1st | 3.083 / 3.083 |
| 2st | 1.931 / 1.931 |
| 3st | 1.696 / 1.696 |
| 4st | 1.276 / 1.276 |
| 5st | 1.027 / 1.027 |
| 6st | 0.854 / 0.854 |
| Rev. | 3.588 / 3.588 |
| Final drive | 4.154 (1/2/R) / 4.333 (1/2/R) 3.176 (3/4/5/6) / 3.250 (3/4/5/6) |
Suspension
| Front | McPherson Strut |
| Rear | Multi-Link |
Steering
| Type | R-MDPS (RACK TYPE MOTOR DRIVEN POWER STEERING) |
| Steering gear ratio | STD: 12.23 (@360°), PP: 12.31 (@360°) |
| Turning radius | 5.8 metres |
| Steering wheel turns lock-to-lock | 2.14 |
Brakes
| Front | Disc Type, 17" : STD /18" : OPT (PP) |
| Rear | Disc Type, 16" : STD /17" : OPT (HAND PARKING) |
| Master cylinder | Φ23.81 |
| Booster size | 10" (LHD,RHD) |
Wheels and tyres
| Wheel type | Tyres |
|---|---|
| 7.5Jx18 AL | 225/40R18 |
| 8.0Jx19 AL | 235/35R19 |
Dimensions (mm)
Exterior
| Overall length | 4335 |
| Overall width | 1795 |
| Overall height | STD: 1,451 (18" tyre) / P PKG: 1,447 (19" tyre) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 |
| Front overhang | 905 |
| Rear overhang | 780 |
| Ground clearance | STD: 136 / P PKG:132 |
Interior
| Front / Rear | |
|---|---|
| Head room | 994 / 977 |
| Leg room | 1,073 / 883 |
| Shoulder room | 1,427 / 1,406 |
Capacities (litres)
| Fuel tank | 50 |
| Luggage space (without rear stiffness bar) | Minimum 395 Maximum 1,301 |
| Luggage (with rear stiffness bar) | Minimum 381 Maximum 1,287 |
Weights* (kg)
| THETA 2.0 T-GDI 250PS / 275PS | |
|---|---|
| Curb weight | 1,400 - 1,480 / 1,429 - 1,509 |
| Gross vehicle weight | 1,950 / 1,950 |