2018 Hyundai i30 N: Prices, specs and release date

The Hyundai i30 N is the Korean company’s first dedicated performance model, and the first model to wear the brand’s N performance badge. The N, by the way, references Hyundai’s global research centre in Namyang, although there’s a certain racetrack also beginning with ‘n’ that played a huge part in this car’s development: the Nürburgring.

Ahead of the UK release date on 4 January 2018, Hyundai has announced full specification and prices for both the i30 N and N Performance.  

How much does the Hyundai i30 N cost?

Prices for the Hyundai i30 N will start from £24,995. This car features a turbocharged 2-litre petrol engine that develops 247bhp, and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.4seconds and has a top speed of 155mph.

By comparison, a Volkswagen Golf GTI also uses a turbocharged 2-litre petrol engine developing 227bhp, and can accelerate from 0-62mph in an identical 6.4seconds. However, the Volkswagen Golf GTI costs £28,575.  

How much does the Hyundai i30 N Performance cost?

The i30 N Performance is the more powerful sibling that Hyundai reckons will account for nearly 90 percent of UK sales. Prices for the i30 N Performance will start from £27,995 on the road, but the updates above the regular i30 N are significant.

The i30 N Performance receives a power upgrade to 271bhp, helping reduce the 0-62mph sprint time to 6.1 seconds. It also benefits from bigger 19-inch alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero tyres, enlarged 18-inch ventilated front and 17-inch rear brake discs, plus an electronic limited slip differential to help maximise traction. 

How can you tell the difference between the i30 N and the i30 N Performance?

There are a few visual clues that help distinguish the i30 N from its more powerful sibling. Compared to the regular five-door model, the i30 N sits 4 mm lower with 18-inch wheels, and the i30 N Performance sits 8mm lower with 19-inch wheels. Look at little closer you’ll also spot the i30 N wearing Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber, compared with the Performance wearing custom Pirelli P Zero tyres and front brake calipers featuring the N logo.

What is the standard equipment on a Hyundai i30 N?

Both versions of the i30 N feature a standard eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, digital radio and smartphone compatibility thanks to both Android Auto and Apple Car Play. They also feature keyless entry, wireless phone charging pad, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and a spare wheel.  

What colour can I spec my Hyundai i30 N in?

The Hyundai i30 N range is available in a specific colour of Performance Blue. This baby blue pearlescent number is a £585 extra and has been inspired by Hyundai Motorsport’s World Rally Championship programmes, and should become as synonymous with the N brand as Nogaro blue is to Audi RS models. There are five further colours to choose: Clean Slate, Polar White, Micron Grey, Phantom Black, Engine Red.

All i30 N models come with Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five-year roadside assistance package, five-year annual health check and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.