Hyundai is preparing a hot version of the i30 hatchbackSpy photographs indicate that the Korean car maker is developing a more dynamic i30 hatch to helm its new go-faster range
A high-performance version of the Hyundai i30 has been spotted testing at the Nürburgring, all but confirming that the hatchback will be used to kick-start the Korean manufacturer’s new N performance division.
Our spy photographer captured the hot i30 undergoing dynamic tests around the German test track. The early prototype in those photos has lower suspension than that fitted to standard versions of the i30.
Through the windscreen it is possible to see additional round instruments on the top of the dashboard. These could be to display the boost pressure of the turbocharged engine.
Last week Hyundai’s World Rally Championship boss, Michel Nandan, told Autocar that the i30 will spearhead the introduction of N division, which is intended to create a greater emotional link around Hyundai’s road cars.
The hot i30 is expected to go head to head with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf R when it is launched in about two years’ time.
Nandan did not elaborate on the expected performance of the car, beyond saying that N-badged cars will have a “high-performance engine” as well as “more sporty suspension”. The engine specification is still under discussion, according to Nandan, who confirmed only that it would be turbocharged using WRC-derived technology.
However, it is understood that the next-generation i30 is being developed on an all-new platform specifically engineered with the high-performance version in mind and that Hyundai wants to use the N brand to fight for sales at the extreme end of the hot hatch market. That would mean competing directly with the 296bhp Golf R and the forthcoming 345bhp Ford Focus RS.
It is expected that a hardcore version of the i20 will then follow as Hyundai seeks to capitalise on the N brand as a means of adding desirability to its wider road car range.
Although he wouldn’t be drawn on specifics about N, Hyundai’s new European boss, Thomas A Schmid, said the firm knew it had to be able to compete with the very best hot hatches before launching the N brand.
“Whatever we do has to be credible in the marketplace straight away, because the brand needs to build credibility,” Schmid said.
Hyundai’s current WRC car is an N-badged derivative of the i20 hatchback, but that will switch to an i20 coupé from next season.
Nandan said the motorsport branch of Hyundai has worked with the road-focused N brand to develop the new cars.
“We are quite well connected because we exchange information and data,” he said. “From our [WRC] side, we get help with calculations, and engineers from R&D look at what we are doing and which way we do it. It’s more technical co-operation.
“It’s not that you can transfer things from a rally car to a road car. It’s impossible. They’re completely different and it’s not the same purpose. But in terms of technology, yes. For some materials and technologies, this can be done.”
Hyundai hired Albert Biermann, former chief engineer of BMW’s M division, at the end of last year, with the specific brief of developing cars for the N brand.
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