Hyundai Elantra (err) i30 N is Mighty, but Not a Type R-Killer

Hyundai has been teasing us with its upcoming N performance arm for years. Now, it’s finally a reality, as the Korean automaker has released its first production N model, the i30 N, which is essentially a high-performance Elantra GT.

At the heart of this hot hatchback is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that packs a mighty 275 PS (271 horsepower) and 353 Nm (260 pound-feet) of torque. An overboost function bumps temporarily bumps torque by 8%, putting it at 381 Nm (281 pound-feet). This power travels through a six-speed manual transmission with rev matching before finally meeting the pavement via the 18- Michelin or 19-inch Pirelli rubber up front.

While Hyundai didn’t release its 0-to-60-mph time, my gut says it will fall somewhere in the low-six- to high-five-second range. The overboost function improves acceleration by 6 to 7%. Top speed will ring in at 155 mph.

Hyundai i30 N (Credit: © Hyundai)

While Hyundai didn’t dive much into the chassis, it did mention a few things other than the aforementioned tires. The i30 N will boast a lowered suspension to help reduce roll, and it will combine with an electronic limited-slip differential, electronic stability control, and adjustable dampers to keep things tidy in the corners.

Drivers can also adjust the i30 N’s attitude depending on their driving conditions and mood. It has five drive modes handled by two steering-wheel-mounted buttons: Eco, Normal, Sport, N, and N Custom.

The looks of the i30 N match the performance nicely, without going overboard. It boasts a reworked front bumper with revised air inlets, a new grille, and a red-accented lip spoiler, new side sills, an aggressive rear valance with a red accent, a new rear bumper, and a variable-valve dual-exhaust system that should deliver a note to match the might of this hot hatchback.

There is not much mention of the i30 N’s interior other than its N sport seats. In the images, you can plainly see that there really isn’t much to talk about here other than its sharp floating screen, two-upholstery seats, N steering wheel, and metallic pedals.

Hyundai i30 N (Credit: © Hyundai)

There is no mention of pricing, nor is there any mention of these performance goodies bleeding into the U.S.-spec Elantra GT. With the resurgence of the hot hatch market in the U.S., I would guess Hyundai is planning to offer it here, but the lack of info is a touch disheartening.