At long last the 'N' Division launches its first new sporty hatchback, the i30 N, track derived for the road.

01 The Hyundai i30 N

• The i30 N marks a new era for Hyundai Motor – introducing the first high-performance model under the N line-up, built to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure for everyone
• N was born in Namyang and honed at the Nürburgring. The ‘N’ symbolises a chicane, the essence of Hyundai Motor’s high-performance car development
• High power: the four-cylinder 2.0-litre T-GDI turbo engine delivers up to 275 PS and 353 Nm torque with high responsiveness and linear power output
• High-performance features: Electronic Limited Slip Differential, Electronic Controlled Suspension, Rev Matching, Launch Control, high-performance tyres, lap timer, and more
• High level of customisation: five different drive modes, including the N and N Custom modes, offer a variety of different configurations from comfort-oriented daily commuting to race track performance
• Emotional sound thanks to a variable exhaust valve system
• True performance design: agressive front and rear bumpers with larger air intakes and red character line, aerodynamic rear spoiler with triangular brake light, dual muffler exhaust, 18- and 19-inch wheels, sport seats, Performance Blue exterior colour inspired by Hyundai Motorsport

The i30 N is Hyundai Motor’s first high-performance car under the N line-up. Built on the New Generation i30, the i30 N has been developed from the ground up to deliver maximum driving pleasure in everyday life on the road, as well as on the track. 

N was born in Namyang, at Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in Korea and honed at the Nürburgring, one of the most challenging race tracks in the world and home of Hyundai’s Testing Center. 

The N logo symbolises a chicane - the ultimate corner where the i30 N has been tested thoroughly and has proven its ability. The i30 N is inspired by Hyundai Motorsport’s experience in WRC since 2014.

“The Hyundai i30 N has been developed for no other purpose than to deliver maximum driving fun to our customers in an accessible high-performance package,” says Albert Biermann, Executive Vice President Performance Development and High Performance Vehicle Division. 

“With the high-performance N models we will enhance our brand’s appeal with emotional products that cater to the needs of people who love to have a smile on their face when they drive their car on a winding road and listen to the sound of the engine. 

That’s why we measure high-performance in BPM, heart beats per minute instead of only RPM.”

The i30 N is Hyundai Motor’s answer to emerging customer preferences towards uncompromising innovation and technology-driven performance. Due to be launched across Europe by the end of 2017, the All-New i30 N is made for driving enthusiasts. The i30 N sports a unique character and coherent, timeless design – which includes the Cascading Grille – the new Hyundai signature - at the frontThis is characterised by a downward tapering gesture inspired by the flow of molten steel.

Focused on Fun to Drive

The i30 N has been developed on the basis of three corner stones under the theme ‘Fun to Drive’: Cornering, Race Track Capability and Everyday Sports Car.

The i30 N has been developed to make the driver’s heart beat faster when he or she gets behind the wheel. When the driver hits the throttle and shifts through the gears, the rev-matching function supports smooth gear shifting, while the overboost function increases torque (+8%) and acceleration (+6-7%). The feeling is enhanced by the car’s sound from the dual muffler exhaust featuring the variable exhaust valve system. 

The cockpit of the i30 N shows key performance parameters through the new instrument cluster and the 8-inch free-floating screen’s modes such as the G-Force meter for live tracking of the performance. 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. The i30 N is built around the driver for maximum responsiveness, balanced performance and fun to drive.

Cornering

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 275 PS and 353 Nm torque. It offers direct response with a linear power development through the early responding turbo charger. It features front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission.

The i30 N’s maximum grip is guaranteed by the 18-inch Michelin or 19-inch Pirelli high-performance Hyundai N tyres. The rack-mounted motor-driven power steering is very direct and offers high precision. The lowered body is rigid and in combination with the Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) reduces roll and enhances cornering speed, enabling the driver to adjust the dampers from comfort-oriented daily commuting to high-performance track-driving.

The i30 N is aerodynamically designed to reduce lift to keep the body firmly on to the road when maximum traction is required. The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) enhances grip and delivers maximum power to the road. For the real enthusiasts, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched off completely for maximum freedom. In order to give the driver and passenger the maximum comfort, the exclusively developed N sport seats offer maximum stability and lateral support in all driving situations.

Race Track Capability

In the development of the vehicle, durability and racetrack performance were key elements. The i30 N has undergone 10,000 km of driving on the Nordschleife at the Nürburgring circuit for durability testing. The car has also taken part twice in the world’s toughest endurance test, the ADAC 24-hours race on the Nürburgring. The engine and its components have been tested for total vehicle evaluation in 2016 and for ensuring its overall race track capability in 2017. Thus, when taking the i30 N to a track day, the driver can be sure that the car’s performance will endure. Its brakes have been developed to last with an extra cooling function through the air intakes on the front bumper. The Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) allows the driver to adjust the i30 N to best suit a race track’s requirements. The body’s high rigidity is increased by the rear stiffness bar behind the rear seats. The car features a strong clutch that is built to last, while the precise six-speed manual transmission has short travel to enhance fast shifting.

Everyday Sports Car

The i30 N is an everyday sports car, suitable for daily commuting in comfort on weekdays or for race track performance on the weekend. By offering a great variety of customisation options, the i30 N is a well-balanced hatchback, offering performance and practicality to create the best feeling for the driver. There are five drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom settings, which can be selected by using two dedicated buttons on the steering wheel. The different modes change the character of the car, adjusting the high-performance parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD), sound, steering and rev-matching. Additionally, the driver can select the rev-matching button on the steering wheel to increase the revs on the engine when shifting from a higher to a lower gear, while the car’s Launch Control helps to launch the car as fast as easy possible by controlling engine torque.

02 Hyundai Motor N line-up: born in Namyang, honed at the Nürburgring

The Hyundai i30 N is Hyundai Motor’s first high-performance model under the N line-up. The ‘N’ stands for Namyang, Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in Korea, where the idea was born, and for the Nürburgring, home to Hyundai Motor’s European Test Centre, where the N line-up was further developed and tested. The close connection between Namyang and Nürburgring created the foundation for N, the goal being to deliver driving enjoyment. Symbolising a chicane, the ‘N’ logo embodies this aspect – an agile vehicle that is fun to drive – and represents the ultimate driving experience on winding roads.

Inspired by Motorsport - the proven track record of Hyundai

Born at the start of 2013 and based in Alzenau, Germany, Hyundai Motorsport was set up to develop a long-term motor sport programme that demonstrates the emotion and engineering which Hyundai puts into its cars. For the last four years Hyundai Motorsport has participated successfully in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), regarded as one of the most challenging and diverse motor sport disciplines.Away from the rally environment, Hyundai Motorsport has also begun testing the i30 TCR.

2013:

• Launch of i20 WRC.

2014:

• Re-entry to the World Rally Championship
• With i20 WRC Hyundai Motorsport takes four podiums and finishes WRC in fourth position in the manufacturer standings.

2015:

• Launch of the Hyundai high performance N line up at Frankfurt Motor Show with the concept cars N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo and RM15.
• Hyundai takes four podiums and finishes WRC in third position.

2016:

• Launch of high-performance racing concepts RM16 at Busan Motor Show and RM 30 at Paris Motor Show.
• Hyundai takes seven podiums and finishes WRC in second position.

2017:

• The dawn of a new era in the sport with the introduction of new technical regulations resulting in more distinctive, powerful and dramatic-looking WRC cars
• Launch of Hyundai’s first mass-produced high-performance car i30 N.
• Hyundai takes six podiums in half of the season and currently ranks second in WRC drivers and team rankings.

Hyundai’s high-performance concepts have been derived during the development of WRC cars. That is why the WRC is considered to be the cradle of the N line-up, thus for the i30 N. During the races, with cars competing on roads of gravel, tarmac, snow and ice, the Hyundai Motor engineers identify further refinement and potential performance enhancements for the i30 N.

Nürburgring Testing Center

The Nürburgring Nordschleife was and continues to be used to hone N’s high-performance technologies. This year, the iconic Nürburgring race track turns 90 and is known as one of the world’s most challenging race tracks. With 73 corners and 20.8 kilometres of tarmac, it is also a motorsports complex and home to Hyundai Motor’s own 3,600 square metre testing centre, operated by the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center. Hyundai Motor’s accelerated durability tests are conducted there. Each car taking part in the tests laps the Nürburgring 420 to 480 times in both dry and wet conditions, simulating up to 180,000 km of severe driving –the equivalent of a normal vehicle’s lifecycle – in just four weeks.

Namyang R&D Center: Birthplace of the i30 N

Opened in 1995 in Hwaseong, South Korea, and employing 13,000 researchers, the Namyang R&D Center is the heart of Hyundai Motor’s global R&D network and the birthplace of the new i30 N. Located on over 3.3 million square metres of land, it consists of various centres for design and engineering, powertrain, performance and test driving, an aero-acoustic wind tunnel, and environmental R&D. It is host to 34 roads, including a Belgian road, and a high-speed track that is 4.5 km long. In all, the site features a total road length of 70 km. The i30 N’s great road holding is the result of months of testing the aerodynamics at Hyundai’s Namyang Technology Research Centre in Korea and in the wind tunnel.

Produced in Europe

The i30 N will be produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech in Nošovice (HMMC). The facility opened in 2008 and started production of the first generation i30 the same year. It has an annual production capacity of 350,000 cars and fulfils the highest quality standards to meet European customers’ expectations. The HMMC facility also features a 3.3 km open test track on the factory grounds, ensuring that every vehicle is tested for dynamic properties, noise and functions, along with a full underbody check for fluid leakage and correct assembly.

03 Designed by the pursuit of performance

The i30 N is focused on true performance features, while also enhancing the experience of those behind the wheel. It sports unique high-performance design elements such as aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers and a new rear spoiler, paired with the coherent, timeless design of the i30 range. According to the principle “form follows function”, designers worked closely with aerodynamic specialists to define the right ratio between the car’s downforce, drag and aerodynamics to create the best possible driving experience. The resulting lowered body together with the newly designed aerodynamics give the car its sporty silhouette and strong stance, while enhancing road balance and race track capabilities.

Exterior Design

The i30 N features an increased wheel arch with 18-inch wheels or unique 19-inch wheels, carrying the N logo. Compared to the five-door version, the i30 N is 4 mm lower with 18-inch wheels and 8 mm lower with 19-inch wheels. The N signature can also be found on the striking red brake callipers as well as on the Cascading Grille at the front. It denotes clearly where the model originates and increases the sense of high performance.

At the front, the i30 N also maintains its sporty, aggressive appearance through the black bezel of the headlamps. At the rear, the triangular third brake light in the new glossy black spoiler and the double muffler exhaust underline the eye-catching look of the sports hatchback.

As the front bumper features the prominent Cascading Grille, particularly stressed through the red insert, the emotional appearance and strong character of the car are once again highlighted. Fresh-air inlets on both sides of the car’s front bumpers enhance the brake cooling and aerodynamics with the horizontal LED daytime running lights positioned on top. 

Behind the Cascading Grille, additional air curtains offer further performance by enhancing air flow, reducing turbulence in the wheel housing and cooling the engine more effectively. The front splitter and the rear wing spoiler create downforce and excellent aero-balance.

Interior Design

The interior 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 custom setting which is visible on the navigation screen. 

For better engine control during gear shifting, drivers can activate the rev-matching control system by using the dedicated rev button just above the N button. The steering wheel is manufactured with the N unique blue stitching and garnished with an N logo at the bottom. The gear shift also features a unique blue stripe as part of the coherent colour design. On top, the ball-type knob bears the N-badge.

The electronic instrument cluster is specifically made for passionate drivers. The shift timing indicator positioned at the top centre of the cluster indicates when to shift gears for optimal race track driving performance. The red zone of the variable LED rev-counter changes according to the driving performance and varies with the engine’s oil temperature. Both the rev-counter and the speedometer are distinctively designed in accordance with the N line-up, being surrounded by a blue lightning line.

The i30 N features uniquely designed high-performance sport seats with powerful lumbar support. Extendable seat cushions further enhance stability and comfort for the driver and front passenger. Customers can choose from a combination of suede and leather or cloth. Both versions feature the outstanding, stamped N logo on the back rest.

High-performance colour range

Because of Hyundai Motor’s motor sport heritage, the i30 N comes with the exclusive Performance Blue paint – a colour introduced at the beginning of Hyundai’s WRC engagement and has represented the N line-up ever since. Altogether, customers can choose from six different exterior colours. Besides Performance Blue, the range includes Clean Slate, Polar White, Micron Grey and Phantom Black or Engine Red.

The special side sills enhancing the sporty character of the lowered body are painted in Black, while the outside mirrors come with a Glossy Black painting. As the handles are body-coloured, they almost disappear, creating a more dynamic look.

High-quality interior materials and dark metal inserts underline the elegant character of the i30 N and its affiliation with the motor sport sector.

04 Driving performance

The i30 N is all about precision, control, safety and durability when it comes to sharp performance and driving excitement. State-of-the-art high-performance technologies can be effectively combined to provide a smooth and controlled ride. The key high-performance features are segment-leading for Hyundai Motor’s first N model and can be chosen individually by the driver depending on the driving mood.

Steering sytem

The i30 N offers a new level of precision in its steering, delivering great value to the driver: its rack-mounted motor driven power steering system (R-MDPS) provides stability to the vehicle at high speeds and makes the car instantly responsive at lower speeds. The electric steering assist system located in the steering gear offers very high output and is designed even for track day driving with cup tyres.

Launch Control

The i30 N’s Launch Control controls engine torque when starting from standstill, helping to launch the car like a professional race driver. Launch Control can be effectively used in N drive mode: with the off-switched Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the clutch disengaged, the first gear can be engaged immediately by releasing the clutch pedal within five seconds after full throttle acceleration.

Rev-matching

Rev-matching automatically adjusts the revs on the engine when the driver shifts from a higher to a lower gear. Consequently, depending on the drive mode, it allows smoother or sportier downshifts. The Rev-matching button can be switched on easily by hand as it is located on the right side of the steering wheel.

Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS)

By controlling the damping force, ride and handling and stability are both enhanced. Depending on the driving conditions, from daily trips to circuit driving, the vehicle’s performance can be adjusted. The use of a solenoid valve guarantees a precise and immediate damping force control. It allows the driver to influence the stiffness of the suspension with the push of a button.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system stabilises the vehicle during cornering manoeuvres. If desired, the ESC can be switched off completely for maximum race track feeling.

Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) (with Performance Package)

The strong cornering ability of i30 N is achieved by different new performance features, such as the Electronically-Controlled Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD). This allows driven wheels to turn at different speeds by applying different amounts of torque depending on the load transfer from the inner to the outer front axle wheel. Wheel slip in specific conditions is reduced and understeering on cornering minimised. E-LSD increases the maximum cornering speed by 5%.

Electronic Sound Generator (ESG)

To provide the inside of the i30 N with a real high-performance experience, a sporty engine sound is produced by the Electronic Sound Generator in the body panel. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen, is an engine sound generator which provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver.. 

Variable Exhaust Valve System (with Performance Package)

Depending on the drive mode, the customer can select different exhaust sounds and thus manage to actively control the exhaust valve. The sound differs with the size of the valve opening. The twin-outlet active exhaust has several settings, allowing the car to increase the amount of exhaust sound from normal to powerful.

Driving Modes

Drivers can choose from five individual drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom settings, which can be activated by using the two dedicated buttons on the steering wheel. The different modes change the character of the car, adjusting the parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD), engine sound, steering and rev-matching. In the N Custom mode, drivers can select from Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings for each high-performance component to match driving preferences and road conditions.

Components		Drive Mode Button			N Button
		Eco	Normal	Sport	N Mode	N Custom
Powertrain Settings	Engine response	Eco	Normal	Sport	Sport+	Normal / Sport / Sport+
	Rev Matching	Off	Normal	Sport	Sport+	Off / Normal / Sport / Sport+
	Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD)	Normal	Normal	Sport	Sport	Normal / Sport
	Exhaust sound (after-fire* sound & variable exhaust sound)	Eco	Normal	Sport	Sport+ (with after-burn sound)	Normal / Sport / Sport+
	Electronic Sound Generator	Normal	Normal	Sport	Sport+	According to engine mode
Chassis Settings	Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS)	Normal	Normal	Sport	Sport+	Normal / Sport / Sport+
	Steering	Normal	Normal	Sport	Sport+	Normal / Sport / Sport+
	Electronic Stability Control (ESC)	Normal	Normal	Normal	Sport	Normal / Sport / Off

*After-fire sound is heard only in Sport+

Powerful Performance Package

The i30 N is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine available with the two power outputs: the Standard Package engine delivers 250 PS, whereas the Performance Package engine's maximum power is boosted to 275 PS. Both outputs deliver a maximum torque of 353 Nm and reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h. The 250 PS version accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds*, the 275 PS version in 6.1 seconds*.

The engine offers direct response with a linear power development through the early responding turbo charger, and is available with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. The power is transferred independently to the gear train, in order to always be ready to shift to the next gear without any torque interruption.

The i30 N with Performance Package exclusively comes with 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero high-performance Hyundai N tyres, distinctive red N break calipers and larger brake discs (18-inch at the front, 17-inch at the rear). The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) and Variable Exhaust Valve System are additional features included in the Performance Package to provide the optimal race track experience.

05 Connected and Caring

The i30 N driving modes can be displayed on the 5.0-inch or the optional 8.0-inch touch screen with navigation, featuring information on PS, torque, turbo boost as well as a a lap and acceleration timer.

The specific N mode screen menu also offers customisable settings for the engine, suspension, steering, differential (in the Performance Package), transmission rev-matching, exhaust sound and stability control.

The i30 N includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both systems enable users to connect their devices to deliver and control music, telephone or navigation functions on-screen. Seamless connectivity allows drivers and passengers to stay connected while remaining focussed on the road. Hyundai Motor also offers a wireless inductive charging pad for mobile phones (Qi standard) and seven-year free subscription to LIVE Services. LIVE Services offer updated information in real time: weather, traffic, speed cameras and online searches for points of interest.

Class-leading safety package

By offering the latest active safety features for the new i30 N, Hyundai Motor democratises technology like the other i30 body types.

The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) fitted in the i30 N operates in three stages using camera sensors. First, it warns the driver visually and audibly. In a second step, it controls the brakes according to the collision danger stage, and in a third stage applies maximum braking force to avoid a collision or minimise damage if a collision is unavoidable.

With the Driver Attention Alert (DAA), the i30 N features a driver protection system: this monitors driving patterns in order to detect reckless or fatigued driving and prevent potential accidents.

The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) senses the car’s position and alerts the driver about unsafe movements at speeds over 60 km/h. By audibly and visually warning the driver before inducing corrective steering, it guides the driver back to a safe position.

Road speed signs are immediately recognised by the Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF), which displays the speed limit in real time. The navigation system display and the TFT cluster both show the information.

A High Beam Assist (HBA) detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles in the same lane ahead at night and changes to low-beam lights as appropriate, thereby reducing blinding effects on other drivers. HBA automatically re-activates the high beams and therefore maximises the driver’s range of vision as soon as no vehicles are detected

06 Technical Data and Dimensions

PETROL: THETA 2.0T-GDI (250PS)
Type	THETA 2.0 T-GDI, 16-valve MLA, DOHC E-CVVT
Capacity	1998 cc
Bore x stroke	86.0 x 86.0 mm
Compression ratio	9.5
Power	250 PS (184 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque	353 Nm @ 1450 ~ 4000 rpm
Maximum speed (km/h)	250
0-100 km/h (seconds)	6.4

PETROL: THETA 2.0T-GDI with Performance Package (275PS)
Type	THETA 2.0 T-GDI, 16-valve MLA, DOHC E-CVVT
Capacity	1998 cc
Bore x stroke	86.0 x 86.0 mm
Compression ratio	9.5
Power	275 PS (202 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque	353 Nm @ 1450 ~ 4500 rpm
Maximum speed (km/h)	250
0-100 km/h (seconds)	6.1

Transmissions

Gasoline engines - speeds

Engine	2.0 T-GDI (250 PS)	2.0T-GDI (275 PS)
Manual	6	6

 Gear ratios

	THETA 2.0 T-GDI
	250PS	275PS
1st	3.083	3.083
2nd	1.931	1.931
3rd	1.696	1.696
4th	1.276	1.276
5th	1.027	1.027
6th	0.854	0.854
Rev.	3.588	3.588
Final drive	4.154 (1/2/R) 3.176 (3/4/5/6)	4.333 (1/2/R) 3.250 (3/4/5/6)

Suspension

Front	McPherson Strut
Rear	Multi-Link

 Steering

Type	R-MDPS (RACK TYPE MOTOR DRIVEN POWER STEERING)
Steering gear ratio	STD: 12.23 (@360°), PP: 12.31 (@360°)
Turning radius	5.8 metres
Steering wheel turns lock-to-lock	2.14

Brakes

Front	Disc Type, 17" : STD /18" : OPT (PP)
Rear	Disc Type, 16" : STD /17" : OPT (HAND PARKING)
Master cylinder	Φ23.81
Booster size	10" (LHD,RHD)

Wheels and tyres

Wheel type	Tyres
7.5Jx18 AL	225/40R18
8.0Jx19 AL	235/35R19

Dimensions (mm)

Exterior

Overall length	4335
Overall width	1795
Overall height	STD: 1,451 (18” tyre) / P PKG: 1,447 (19” tyre)
Wheelbase	2650
Front overhang	905
Rear overhang	780
Ground clearance	STD: 136 / P PKG: 132

Interior

	Front	Rear
Head room	994	977
Leg room	1,073	883
Shoulder room	1,427	1,406

Capacities (litres)

Fuel tank	50
Luggage space (without rear stiffness bar)	Minimum 395
	Maximum: 1.301
Luggage (with rear stiffness bar)	Minimum: 381
	Maximum: 1.287

Weights* (kg)

	THETA 2.0 T-GDI
	250PS	275PS
Curb weight	1400 – 1480	1429 – 1509
Gross vehicle weight	1950	1950

*Values are tentative targets and not homologated, hence subject to changes.