New warm i30 hatchback could get the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine from Hyundai's Veloster TurboSpy shots have revealed that Hyundai is working on a sportier version of its i30 hatchback.
This test mule, spotted on public roads, wears camouflage that conceals changes to its front and rear bumpers. Also visible are prominent dual exhausts at the rear.
Those exhausts point towards what is likely a new engine option for the i30. One of the probable candidates to donate its engine is the Veloster Turbo, which features a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine developing 184bhp and 195lb ft.
In the Veloster, that configuration results in a 0-62mph time of 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 133mph. The most powerful i30 at the moment is the 1.6-litre CRDi diesel, which produces 126bhp and is capable of 0-62mph in 10.9sec.
This new i30 variant is unlikely to be badged under Hyundai's new N performance brand, however. The first N-badged model, based on the second-generation i20, is believed to be in development.
When it comes to market this hot i30 will face competition from hatchbacks like Peugeot's upcoming warmer 308, which has recently been spotted testing, and the Kia Procee'd GT.
The new model looks set to sit at the top of a refreshed i30 range, which is due to go on sale next year. Recent spy pictures have revealed the Focus-rivalling i30 will get a new front bumper with updated grille and more prominent Hyundai badging, while minor updates to the car's interior are also expected.
Judging by the early appearance of this test mule it's unlikely the hot i30 will be ready in time for the Paris motor show next month. Instead, expect a motor show debut early next year, possibly at the Geneva show in March.
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