Refreshed Hyundai i30 N brings more power and new N DCT

Since 2017, more than 25 thousand units of the Hyundai i30 N have been sold across Europe. Now the model has been refreshed to ensure it remains competitive and continues to meet expectations.

As the first official images we showed a few weeks ago had already hinted, the updated i30 N adopts a revised look that aligns it more closely with the styling used across the rest of the i30 range.

Up front, the changes are led by new LED headlights with a “V” light signature and, naturally, a redesigned grille. At the rear, only the hatchback receives updates, gaining new lights, a more muscular bumper and two larger tailpipes.

Inside, the i30 N can now be specified with N Light sports seats which, as the name suggests, are 2.2 kg lighter than the standard seats. The options list also includes a 10.25” infotainment display compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus the latest generation of the Hyundai Bluelink service.

Confirmed: the Hyundai i30 N really did gain power

On the mechanical side, there are two major developments: a power increase for the most hard-core version fitted with the Performance Package, and the fact that this version can, for the first time, be paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the N DCT.

In both cases, the engine remains a 2.0 l turbocharged four-cylinder unit. In standard form it produces 250 cv and 353 Nm, and it is offered exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.

On Hyundai i30 N models equipped with the Performance Package, output rises to 280 cv and 392 Nm - an increase of 5 cv and 39 Nm compared with its predecessor. As mentioned, with the Performance Package the i30 N can be ordered with either a six-speed manual or the eight-speed N DCT dual-clutch automatic.

As before, maximum torque is available between 1950 and 4600 rpm, while peak power continues to arrive at 5200 rpm.

In terms of performance, top speed is 250 km/h in both cases. With the Performance Package fitted, the updated i30 N completes 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9s (0.2s quicker than previously).

New gearbox brings new functions

The arrival of the N DCT also introduces three new features: N Grin Shift, N Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift.

The first, “N Grin Shift”, unleashes the engine and transmission’s maximum performance for 20s (a kind of overboost). To activate it, you simply press a button on the steering wheel. The “N Power Shift” function triggers when accelerating with more than 90% throttle input and aims to deliver maximum torque to the wheels.

Finally, “N Track Sense Shift” automatically detects when road conditions are suitable for more committed driving and switches on by itself, choosing the right gear and the exact timing for shifts.

Shared by both manual and automatic versions is the N Grin system. Already available before, it lets the driver pick from five driving modes - Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom - adjusting suspension settings, engine response, driver assistance systems and even the exhaust.

What else does the Performance Package add?

Beyond the extra power and the option of the new dual-clutch automatic transmission, the Performance Package also delivers further dynamic benefits.

Choosing it brings an electronic limited-slip differential, larger front brake discs (360 mm instead of 345 mm) and 19” wheels fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres, which save 14.4 kg of unsprung mass. Added to this are revised suspension and steering.

Safety levels raised

Alongside the new styling, higher output and the new gearbox for the i30 N, Hyundai has also chosen to significantly strengthen the safety equipment offering.

As a result, the Hyundai i30 N now includes systems such as forward collision assist with pedestrian detection and lane keeping assist.

Exclusive to the hatchback variant are blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. In both cases, when the i30 N is fitted with the NDCT gearbox, these systems can even prevent a collision.

When does it arrive and how much will it cost?

With its European market launch planned for early 2021, pricing for the refreshed Hyundai i30 N has not yet been announced.