The new Hyundai i30 N and Kona N were recently launched, coming in with a much anticipated DCT transmission. They both join and expand Hyundai’s N lineup.
The Hyundai i30 N and Kona N
The Hyundai i30 N is enhanced with a new exterior design and more focus on performance, emotion and statement. The introduction of the 8-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission), which offers paddle shifters and enables three new N performance functions, makes for an even sportier driving experience.
The 19-inch forged wheels reduce weight, allowing for more agile handling. Additional high-performance features coupled with updated safety make the i30N a capable racetrack and daily sports car. The i30 N stands for “Fun to Drive” and makes the driver’s heartbeat faster when he or she gets behind the wheel. While the i30 N is always ready to transform at the push of a button for racetrack driving on the weekend, it is truly an everyday sports car that is suitable for daily commuting in comfort on weekdays.
Peak N Performance
The new Hyundai i30 N and Kona N are powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a front-wheel-drive system and eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The engine produces 206 kW and the maximum torque has been increased by 39 Nm to 392 Nm.
The turbocharged engine offers flat power, which ensures high responsiveness and improved acceleration. Flat power provides more torque and power at lower RPMs, thus using more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving. The new i30 N keeps maximum torque between 1 950 and 4 600 r/min and achieves maximum power at 5 200 r/min. This improves acceleration in the mid and high-speed range.
The maximum speed of the i30 N is 250 km/h, and it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds (with Launch Control). This is an improvement of 0.2 seconds or 3 per cent as compared to the previous model.
For the first time with i30 N, the N DCT enables three new N performance functions. These include N Power Shift, N Grin Shift, and N Track Sense Shift. These functions are also available on the Kona N.
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Performance Functions of the Hyundai i30 N and Kona N
N Power Shift (NPS): engages when the car accelerates with more than 90% of throttle. This then mitigates any reduction in torque during upshifts to deliver maximum power to the wheels. This enhances fun to drive by giving a “push feel” when upshifting. The accompanying bang sound coming from the partial cylinder cut underlines the sporty performance.
N Grin Shift (NGS) maximises engine and DCT performance for 20 seconds. In order to get maximum acceleration, the car will shift down to the lowest available gear. To activate, the driver pushes a dedicated button on the steering wheel. A countdown begins on the cluster showing the remaining seconds for this function. After the “boost” has ended, drivers must wait at least 40 seconds to use it again. This feature allows the driver to use the car’s full potential with only one button.
Finally, N Track Sense Shift (NTS) optimises adaptive shift for racetrack driving, helping the driver to focus more on the steering. It automatically recognises when the conditions are optimal for dynamic driving on a racetrack and activates automatically. Based on motorsport data combined with the driver’s behaviour, the car selects the right gear and shift timing in sport driving conditions to provide optimal performance.
The N Grin Control System gives customers the choice between five distinct drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom. The drive modes change the character of the N by adjusting the engine, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), exhaust sound and steering. This is to optimise them for a variety of driving conditions. In Custom mode, drivers are free to customise the parameters to match their driving preferences and the road conditions.
Optimised safety
The Hyundai i30 N includes more class-leading Hyundai SmartSense active safety and driver assistance features. The SmartSense features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, upgraded to include pedestrian detection (FCA-P). Lane Following Assist (LFA) to keep the vehicle centred in its lane. Blind-Spot Collision-avoidance Assist (BCA-R). This function can activate the brakes to prevent a collision when switching lanes. Using radar, the Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) monitors the rear corners and, if another vehicle is detected, a visual alert appears on the exterior mirrors.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-avoidance Assist (RCCA) warns the driver if a vehicle approaches from the side when reversing and automatically brakes when required.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW) reduces the risk of collision with approaching traffic when reversing out of narrow areas with low visibility.
- Fatigue Detection/Driver Attention Warning (DAW), warns the driver to take a break when it detects unusual driving behaviour.
Kona N Safety
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) – sounds a warning and applies differential braking to prevent the vehicle from colliding into another vehicle in the adjacent lane;
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) – sounds a warning and applies the brakes to prevent a rear-end collision when the car is backing up and another car comes from the side, for example when exiting a parking space;
- Smart Cruise Control (SCC) – maintains vehicle speed and following distance;
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) – automatically keeps the car centred in the lane, corrects course if the car reaches the lane markings by using a front-view camera;
- Lane Follow Assist (LFA) – automatically adjusts the steering wheel to keep the vehicle centred in its lane;
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist detection (FCA) – sounds an alarm and, if necessary, applies the brakes if a collision becomes imminent. To better detect cyclists and pedestrians, a camera and radar are utilised.
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW) – continuously monitors and analyses driving patterns through data inputs to detect fatigue or distraction.
Technology Features
The tech and connectivity equipment in the all-new Kona N and i30N focus on enhancing all driving experiences. The Performance Head-Up Display (HUD) projects vehicle information onto a transparent screen. It allows the driver to see relevant navigation, safety, and driving information while keeping their eyes on the road.
Both N models come with a 10.25-inch digital N cluster with a sporty design and a 10.25-inch AVN touchscreen. A Performance Driving Data System monitors and improves racetrack driving skills. The feature saves and displays driving data, such as power, torque and turbo boost, during racetrack driving via an AVN touchscreen. The system also comes with a lap and acceleration timer.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make the everyday driving experience even in a high-performance vehicle more convenient. Drivers can activate and control features like climate, rear window and side mirror heating, as well as steering wheel heating through a simple voice command.
Pricing
The pricing for the Hyundai i30 N DCT and Kona N 2.0 DCT is R 749 900 (including VAT). Pricing includes Hyundai’s 7-year / 200 000km manufacturer warranty; a 5-year / 75 000km service plan and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000km.
