Revised Hyundai i30 Sedan N revealed

COINCIDING with the anniversary of the “N” performance brand that launched on September 15, 2015, and on the back of reopening the order books after a supply driven hiatus for its popular i30 N and i20 N hot hatches, Hyundai Australia has announced it will introduce a new motorsport-inspired i30 Sedan N early in 2024.

The refreshed model was launched internationally this week but no pricing has been issued, suffice to say the current i30 Sedan N lists at $50,200 before on-road costs.

While the 2.0-litre twin-scroll turbo-petrol engine remains the same, Hyundai says the revised model offers upgraded motorsport-derived technology to provide improved stability and comfort with fine-tuned performance, safety and comfort – all of which suggests a higher price point.

Its arrival coincides with the eighth anniversary of Hyundai’s N brand and appropriately benefits from the company’s extensive motorsport participation and success since N was established.

The Sedan N model entered the market in 2021 and has helped drive the N brand’s penetration into Australia and other countries. The wild-looking TCR version has proven its competitiveness with multiple wins since debut.

Delving into the nitty gritty, the refreshed i30 Sedan N features ride and handling enhancements that include a reinforced engine mount membrane for reduced after-shake and improved agility, G-bushing reinforcement for better yaw response and steering precision, and a new rear suspension insulator changed from rubber to urethane for improved damping and yaw response.

Hardware for the adaptive suspension is improved for enhanced body control and its software calibration optimised for the hardware change.

The steering system has also been tweaked for better feedback and a more direct feel, while a low-friction universal joint is used to increase steering precision.

Software for the motor-driven power steering is optimised according to chassis and steering changes while front and rear tyre pressure has increased to 36/34 psi (compared to the current 35/33 psi) to compensate for front axle load increase while maintaining front to rear ride and handling balance.

Improved cooling is installed without compromising aerodynamic efficiency, achieved through maximising the radiator surface and by using duct-style air guards that guide airflow to maximise speed, improve aerodynamics, fuel efficiency and cooling ability in extreme conditions.

An air guide moulded into the front bumper is derived from motorsports and improves braking performance by directing cool air over the front brakes and the addition of a thermal protector on the front brake hose for increased endurance.

Tech boffins have reprogrammed the N Sedan’s ECU software to optimise the use of 98 octane fuel.

But the engine remains untouched, the turbo-petrol 2.0-litre unit still paired with a six-speed manial or eight-speed dual-clutch transmission to deliver an identical 206kW and 392Nm to the front wheels for a V-max of 280km/h.

The front of the new i30 Sedan N is differentiated by a lower stance with black trim and exterior colour garnish along with a revised bumper.

Down the side we find red stripe/decal treatment along with a black anodised emblem.

A new, larger rear bumper and a boat-tail are detail added to emphasise the car’s sporty image while improving aerodynamics. A a wing-type spoiler is also said to improve aerodynamics for speed and faster cornering.

Inside, the car scores an N-specific steering wheel and gear knob, bespoke instrument cluster and infotainment systems as well as N light sports bucket seats with illuminated N logo.

“N brand has always been inspired by motorsport competition, and now that i30 Sedan N TCR has proved its advanced technology with a successful race career, the new i30 Sedan N becomes evidence of our commitment to bring motorsport-winning DNA into our road cars for N fans to enjoy,” said Till Wartenberg, vice president and head of N brand and motorsport at Hyundai Motor Company.