2021 Hyundai i30 N looks meaner, goes even faster
New auto gearbox, more aggressive styling for 2021 i30 N
Since its debut in 2017, the i30 N has been Hyundai’s answer to hot hatchbacks like the Honda Civic Type R and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. To keep up with the competition, Hyundai has decided to give the i30 N a serious update for 2021.
Design-wise, the i30 N looks very mean. A more dynamic treatment of the updated i30 revealed earlier this year. It gets new headlights with V-shaped LED daytime running lights flanking a new grille and bumper featuring larger air vents and a red stripe running the length of the lip. Meanwhile, the grille has a more trapezoidal design and is reminiscent of the latest Sonata.
On the opposite end, the i30 N hatchback gets a larger roof spoiler and revised taillights. The circular exhaust pipes are larger too. To help improve performance, new lightweight 19-inch wheels wrapped in sticky Pirelli P-Zero tires were fitted. Though hard to tell from a glance, hidden behind the front wheels are larger brake rotors for increased stopping power.
Under the hood, the 2021 i30 N is still powered by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and is available in two stages of tune. The standard model remains at 250 HP and 353 Nm torque. However, the Performance Package now produces 280 HP and 392 Nm torque, 5 HP, and 39 Nm more than before.
For the first time, Hyundai will offer the i30 N with an automatic gearbox as well. It’s not just any automatic transmission either. It’s the same 8-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission found on the Veloster N. Those that want to shift their own gear can still do as the 6-speed manual transmission has been retained.
Other features include new lightweight seats which save 2.2kg over the standard seats. Metal pedals and Performance Blue stitching add even more sporty appeal. Safety-wise, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist now includes pedestrian detection and lane-following assist.
It’s unfortunate Hyundai Philippines doesn’t offer the i30 N locally. But hopefully, they do change their minds with this updated model in the near future.
