Revamped Hyundai i30 Sedan N in TCR variant delivers an impressive visual impact
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Hyundai Motors unveils its latest performance-oriented offering, the i30 Sedan N. This new addition to the i30 family is set to sit atop the renewed i30 Sedan range and will replace the Elantra in Australia.
The i30 Sedan N is expected to share many of its specifications with the updated hot-hatch version, but key differences set it apart.
Body Style
The i30 Sedan N, unlike its counterpart, the i30 Fastback N, boasts a traditional three-box sedan design, offering a more practical and conventional look. The Fastback N, on the other hand, features a coupe-like sloping roofline, providing a sportier and more stylish fastback silhouette.
Suspension and Driving Dynamics
While both models share core drivetrain components, the i30 Fastback N has a suspension stiffness increased by about 15% compared to the regular i30 N, enhancing handling and driving performance. The Fastback N also features an adjusted steering ratio for improved steering response.
Design Details and Features
The i30 Fastback N showcases N-specific features such as a black mesh grille, black bezel headlamps, horizontally arranged LED daytime running lights, an N-specific rear bumper and diffuser, exclusive leather bucket seats with red accents, and unique emblems. These design elements emphasize sportiness and exclusivity relative to the Sedan N.
Market Availability
The i30 Fastback N has not been released in the Korean domestic market due to overlap with Hyundai's Avante model. Conversely, the Sedan N is available in more markets.
In the racing realm, the i30 Sedan N is already making waves, competing in the TCR series in the US and set to be used in the IMSA sports car series for 2021 with two cars in competition. The car's design gives us an idea of how the new i30 Sedan N might look.
The i30 Sedan N racer is powered by a wicked-up version of the N car's 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 260kW of power and generating 450Nm of torque. The car is equipped with a six-speed sequential gearbox. However, no information about the gearbox of the i30 Sedan N has been given.
The right-hand-drive i30 Sedan N will be exported from Korean factories, and it's expected that importing the i30 Sedan N will reduce costs compared to the Fastback N currently sourced from Turkey.
As for the weight of the car, the i30 Sedan N weighs 1265kg, but no weight details have been provided for the i30 Sedan N. No further details have been revealed about the i30 Sedan N, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting more information.
[1] Source: Hyundai Motors International Press Release [2] Source: Car and Driver, Hyundai i30 Fastback N Review
The i30 Sedan N, being a conventional sedan, garnered interest in both the automotive and finance industries due to its potential increased appeal for everyday drivers. In the sports world, the i30 Sedan N has successfully debuted in racing competitions, such as the TCR series in the US and the IMSA sports car series for 2021.