What is it?
This is the base-spec, common-or-garden version of the Hyundai’s i30 N, the Korean manufacturer's inaugural hot hatchback.
That’s not to say there’s anything really common-or-garden about it though, only that it doesn’t have the optional Performance Package fitted to the car we road tested late last year.
This means it’s 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder engine develops 247bhp as opposed to 271bhp, it doesn’t benefit from an electronic limited-slip differential, and that it forgoes the variable exhaust valve system. It’s also fitted with smaller 18in alloys shod in 225/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, as opposed to the 19in wheels and Pirelli P Zero rubber you get with the Performance Package. Whereas that more seriously equipped car costs from £28,010, though, this version is £3000 cheaper.
Past these differences, the hot Hyundai is largely the same. You still get three-way adaptive suspension - comprised of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear - a reinforced clutch, launch control, a six-speed manual gearbox with a rev-matching function and a full suite of in-car infotainment systems that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, satellite navigation and DAB radio. Considering the £25,010 asking price, it’s still quite a compelling little package.
Join the debate
Add your comment
Better colours?
All the press photos seems to have the car in that dull light blue/grey tone and it does nothing for me. Add a little more colour and it would look much better.
wrong rivals
I think this sits in a different category from the Type-R, more the 308Gti approach. I'd cretainly look at it, but it's a bit bland-looking. Hyundai need to up their design game - it's still pretty derivative, and that front-end could be from any number of non-premium brands.
michael knight wrote:
Regarding dull looking, I think the new fastback i30 looks a lot better and hopefully will look even better in N spec.
The interior...
...gives the impression that it’s missed out somewhat??!! Well, it seems almost the same - oh no, it’s exactly the same Ford Fiesta / new Focus dash design.
For the rest of it, there are already complaints of some i30 N (german) owners about a bit too much turbo lag and the not-so-good mileage --- compared with similar hot hatches -- plus a bunch of glitches (minor ones, ok, but irritating, including seats/interior chirps-squeaks.)
For its price it seems an honest proposition though. Even if, personally, I don’t like the new Hyundai/Kia *teutonic* style direction imposed by Peter Schreyer.