The Hyundai i30N is not a car to avoid; it’s one to consider, especially if you’re in the market for a thrilling hot hatch. With its powerful engine, improved handling, and stylish design, it’s a strong contender in its class. While it may have a few minor quirks, the overall driving experience more than makes up for them.
From its sleek exterior to the impressive engine under the hood, we’ll dissect every aspect of the Hyundai i30N.
Unleashing the Power: The Engine
The heart of the Hyundai i30N is its two-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. Hyundai has made some tweaks, giving it a robust 280 horsepower, a remarkable increase of five horsepower over its predecessor. The torque has also seen a significant boost, now at 392-newton meters, a gain of 39 newton meters. But just how quick is this hot hatch? We’ll get to that shortly.
Braking to Perfection
While the standard i30 already boasts impressive brakes, the i30N takes it a step further. It retains the same 360-millimeter discs in the front and 314-millimeter discs in the rear, both gripped by single-piston calipers. To test their effectiveness, we conducted an emergency stop from 60 miles per hour, and the results were impressive. It took just 35 meters to come to a complete halt.
A Suspension for Thrill-Seekers
The Hyundai i30N features a stiffer sports suspension compared to the standard i30. It sits eight millimeters closer to the ground, equipped with adaptive dampers and beefier anti-roll bars. This latest generation also introduces an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the front axle. The i30N offers a choice between a short-throw six-speed manual and an eight-speed dual-clutch with launch control, maintaining its front-wheel-drive configuration.
The Thrill of Driving
Behind the wheel, the Hyundai i30N truly shines. With precise steering and a sharp sense of control, it’s a car that exudes confidence on the road. The rev-matching feature adds to the overall driving experience, making gear shifts a delight. Although not as slick as the Honda Civic Type R, the i30N remains an absolute blast to drive, especially on winding roads.
Aesthetics and Design
The exterior design of the i30N is nothing short of captivating. It features an aggressive front end with sizable air vents, accented by striking red piping. The midlife facelift introduces new headlights and subtle design enhancements, along with 19-inch alloy wheels and distinctive red brake calipers. The side skirt and roof spoiler are quintessential hot hatch features, ensuring it looks the part. At the rear, the design showcases updated tail lamps and slightly larger exhaust pipes.
Inside the Cockpit
The i30N’s interior is a driver’s paradise, adorned with a sporty steering wheel bearing the ‘N’ emblem. Drive mode buttons, rev counters, and aluminum pedals contribute to the racing-inspired atmosphere. Contrasting stitching and N-branded floor mats add to the allure. Notably, the sports seats are new, featuring an illuminated ‘N’ badge—a striking detail for enthusiasts.
Handling in Urban Terrain
Beyond its track capabilities, the Hyundai i30N demonstrates practicality for daily driving. The inclusion of all-around parking sensors and a reversing camera simplifies parking, and the visibility remains impressive. The firm clutch might be a consideration for city drivers, making the automatic version a sensible choice. The suspension has been improved, offering a more balanced ride without compromising the thrill of driving.
Spacious Back Seats
A hot hatch must also cater to practicality, and the i30N doesn’t disappoint. The back seats offer ample space with generous headroom and legroom. The sports seats are thinner, further enhancing the comfort in the rear. Grippy Alcantara material and sporty floor mats elevate the cabin’s appeal.
Conquering the Open Road
On faster roads, the Hyundai i30N unleashes its engine’s power, allowing for swift acceleration. However, there is one downside to long-distance driving—the tire noise at 70 miles per hour can become a nuisance. Yet, the i30N’s spirited character makes up for these minor inconveniences.
Noteworthy Features
Here are five aspects that make the Hyundai i30N truly stand out:
- Custom Configuration: Hyundai allows drivers to fine-tune various settings individually, creating a personalized driving experience.
- No Soft Limiter: The exhaust system in the i30N doesn’t have a soft limiter, producing an exhilarating roar.
- Weight Reduction: Lighter sports seats and wheels contribute to the car’s overall agility.
- Extended Warranty: Hyundai offers a five-year warranty that covers track use, provided the car remains unmodified.
- Performance Gauges: The i30N features a range of performance-related gauges and a performance timer for measuring lap times and acceleration.
How much does an i30 N cost?
With a six-speed manual transmission, the i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition will cost $53,200; with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it will cost $56,200.
