New Hyundai i30 N hot hatch unleashed

Hyundai has launched the i30 N – the first model to be developed by its new N performance arm.

Based on the i30, Hyundai says the new car has “been developed from the ground up to deliver maximum driving pleasure in everyday life on the road, as well as on the track”.

Designed in Namyang, at Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in South Korea, the i30 N has been honed at the Nurburgring, one of the most challenging race tracks in the world and home to Hyundai’s Testing Centre.

Powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-litre T-GDI turbo engine delivers up to 271bhp, its high-performance features include Electronic Limited Slip Differential, Electronic Controlled Suspension, Rev Matching, Launch Control, high-performance tyres and a lap timer.

It sports five different drive modes, offering a variety of different configurations from comfort-oriented daily commuting to race track performance, plus a variable exhaust valve system with “emotional sound”.

Design highlights include an aggresive front and rear bumpers with larger air intakes and red character line, an aerodynamic rear spoiler with triangular brake light, dual muffler exhaust, 18 and 19-inch wheels, sport seats and Performance Blue exterior colour inspired by Hyundai Motorsport.

The 247bhp version of the i30 N can reach 62mph from standstill in 6.4 seconds. Add an optional performance pack, which boosts the power to 271bhp and the 0-62mph times drops to 6.1 seconds. Top speed is an impressive 155mph.

The car’s rivals will include the Volkswagen GTI and Ford Focus ST and it’s due to go on sale by the end of the year.