Anyone who deals closely with cars should know by now that Hyundai builds rock-solid cars. The model range of the Koreans is extremely extensive. Whether it’s a combustion engine, hybrid, electric vehicle or even a fuel cell – there’s something for everyone. However, we would have suspected such a sharp compact athlete as the i30 N from the subsidiary Kia. After all, it is known for its dynamic orientation.
The fact is: With the N-Sport model, the Koreans have a hot iron in the fire. Even the 2.0-liter turbo in the base model i30 N delivers a strong 250 hp. He poaches in the area around the 245 hp VW Golf GTI, but costs 33,650 euros, almost 6,000 euros less than the heated Wolfsburg. The second body variant of the Korean promises even more driving pleasure, in which the engine even transmits 280 hp to the front axle. However, the i30 Fastback N Performance is not a classic hatchback, but a flat-moulded four-door coupe.
With a base price of 38,850 euros, the i30 Fastback N Performance is not only the more powerful, but also the smarter alternative in the Hyundai sports program. If, as in our test car, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is added instead of the manual six-speed box, the dynamic Korean only goes over the counter for 40,800 euros.
With a trunk volume of 450 liters, the exclusive variant offers 55 liters more storage space than the i30 N hatchback, but the coupé shape that slopes sharply towards the rear limits the everyday use of the fastback somewhat. Tall passengers in the rear lack enough headroom and the view to the rear is also only moderate. However, for easier maneuvering in tight parking spaces, a reversing camera and a parking aid are always on board as standard.
On the other hand, we would have expected more sporty flair from the interior. However, the sober and factual cockpit leaves a solid impression. No less good: With its variable marking, the rev counter warns the driver not to press the tube too hard when the engine temperature is cold. The optional sports bucket seats in the leather-Alcantara mix (1400 euros extra) are really great. The well-contoured furniture gives the driver and front passenger a good grip at all times. However, there is criticism for the too small adjustment range of the height adjustment. Above all, tall drivers over 1.85 meters want a lower seating position.
The sports steering wheel proves to be handy and handy. Inside there are two light blue buttons that increase the driving pleasure even more. The i30 Fastback N can be configured in an extremely wide range of ways using the checkered flag on the right-hand side and the driving mode switch on the right-hand side. Starting with the chassis spread, through the response of the engine, transmission and steering to the sound of the flap-controlled exhaust system. Even the electronically controlled limited-slip differential can be personalized to suit your taste. There seems to be no limit to the comprehensive setting options via the so-called N Grin Control System (grin stands for grin, by the way). And the engineers around former BMW developer Albert Biermann even thought of an overboost function that provides an additional 10 hp for 20 seconds.
The driving pleasure is correspondingly high for the Korean, who impresses with an unbelievable performance. The Hyundai sprints to the 100 mark in just 5.4 seconds, while the automated transmission shifts gears at lightning speed and always has the right gear ready. If need be, the Korean can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h on the freeway. He does it easily and with ease. But on country roads it is much more in its element and literally invites you to take corners.
However, the remaining comfort is not neglected. The chassis is sporty, but not set too hard. In connection with its precise and directly responsive steering, the I30 Fastback N lies very neutrally and like the proverbial board on the road. What is also remarkable for a front-wheel drive vehicle is the high level of traction that the Hyundai develops even when it is wet. And when downshifting, the Hyundai splashes loudly over its two tailpipes. If you don’t like the pleasantly babbling sound, you can simply switch it off.
The Hyundai I30 Fastback N Performance proves to be a real dynamic car that can also be extensively personalized. The fun potential with the Korean is enormous. However, we would have wished for more sporty accents from the sober interior. (Guido Borck/cen)
Daten Hyundai i30 Fastback N Performance 2.0 T-GDI DCT
Length x width x height (m): 4.46 x 1.80 x 1.42
Wheelbase (m): 2.65
Antieb: R4-Benziner, Turbo, 1998 ccm, FWD, Sperrdiff. 8-Gang-DCT
Power: 206 kW / 280 hp at 5500-6000 rpm
Max. torque: 392 Nm at 2100 rpm to 4700 rpm
Drive type: front-wheel drive, electronically controlled limited-slip differential
Top speed: 250 km/h
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 5.4 seconds
WLTP average consumption: 8.4 liters Super
CO2 emissions: 191 g/km (Euro 6d)
Efficiency class: E
Test consumption: 10.0 liters Super
Empty weight / payload: min. 1549 kg / max. 431 kg
Trunk volume: 450-1351 liters
Price: 40,800 euros