Hyundai adds even more potencie to i30N hot hatch
Ok, so when a manufacturer enters the hot hatch segment they automatically get pitched against the Golf GTI, in the same way that every performance sedan gets squared up against the BMW M3. The GTI and the M3 have set benchmarks within their segment and everyone wants to take them down. Hyundai reckons that its updated i30N has what it takes to take on the GTI and the bus-load of competitors in the performance hatch segment. Here are the details.
The close connection between Namyang, Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in Korea and the famous Nürburgring where the car was developed created the foundation for N.
The i30 N was originally developed on the basis of the three N cornerstones: Corner Rascal, Everyday Sports Car and Racetrack Capability. While the i30 N is always ready to be transformed at the push of a button for racetrack driving on the weekend, it is truly an everyday sports car that is suitable for daily commuting in comfort on weekdays.
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. Now, the design has been enhanced to give the new i30 N an even more racetrack-inspired look and improve aerodynamics.
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 206 kW and 392 Nm torque.
The i30 N is aerodynamically designed to reduce lift. This keeps the body firmly on to the road when maximum traction is required. The N Corner Carving Differential, an Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD), enhances grip and improves maximum cornering speed. For the real enthusiasts, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched off completely for maximum freedom.
The interior of the new i30 N 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 N unique cluster.
The new N DCT eight-speed dual clutch transmission enables a range of high-performance driving features, making the new i30 N even more fun to drive. Unlike a typical dual-clutch transmission, which runs without oil or is “dry,” the wet-type N DCT uses two electrical oil pumps to reduce the amount of friction between the moving parts and for a better cooling of the clutch, thus allowing a higher amount of torque to transfer through the gearbox.
We can’t wait to get behind the wheel of this car to see if it is truly able to dethrone the king, the Golf GTI
Also worth a look: the Hyundai Creta: Matte Edition Headlines 2024 Refresh and the IONIQ 5 N Wins TopGear's 2023 Car of the Year.
FAQ
Q: What does the Hyundai i30N cost in South Africa?
The Hyundai i30N starts from around R599,900 in South Africa, making it a proper alternative to the Golf GTI without completely emptying your wallet.
Q: Is the Hyundai i30N worth buying over a Golf GTI?
The i30N delivers 206 kW and 392 Nm with proper track credentials for about R50,000 less than a Golf GTI, plus you get that brilliant eLSD and Nürburgring-tuned chassis that actually works.
Q: How fast is the Hyundai i30N and what's the fuel consumption?
The i30N hits 100 kph in 6.1 seconds with its 2.0-litre turbo engine, though you'll see around 9-10 litres per 100km if you can keep your foot out of it.
Q: What makes the Hyundai i30N different from regular hot hatches?
The i30N gets proper track-focused kit like the N Corner Carving Differential, multiple drive modes, and aerodynamic tweaks that actually reduce lift rather than just looking pretty.
Q: Should I buy the Hyundai i30N or wait for something better?
Buy it now because the i30N offers genuine hot hatch thrills with daily usability, plus Hyundai's 7-year warranty beats most German rivals by miles.
Should You Buy It?
The best hot hatch under R650,000 in SA is definitely the Hyundai i30N. At R599,900, you're getting 206 kW of properly engineered performance that can embarrass cars costing twice as much on a twisty road. The Korean brand has done their homework at the Nürburgring, and it shows in every corner you attack. Yes, the Golf GTI has more badge appeal, but the i30N has more character, costs less money, and comes with that brilliant 7-year warranty that'll keep you smiling long after the initial excitement wears off. If you want a hot hatch that's actually hot rather than just warm, buy the i30N.
