Following the i30 N and the recently unveiled Veloster N, Hyundai has added a third N model to their growing performance brand's line-up with the new i30 Fastback N.
The car sports a five-door fastback body style, much like an Audi A7, albeit far more compact. As you would imagine, its mechanicals are identical to that in the i30 N hatch, and is available in two derivatives with both being powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged motor - a 184kw standard version, and a 202kw Performance Package. In both cases, the motor produces 353nm, whilst an overboost function takes it to 378nm.
Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission - the only gearbox on offer. While the standard model of the Fastback N needs 6.4 seconds to hit 100kph from a standstill, the Performance Package variant one cuts three tenths of a second to complete the dash in only 6.1 seconds. Flat out, both will reach a top speed of 250kph.
As with the i30 N, the Fastback version is equipped with the N Grin Control system that allows drivers to choose from five different drive modes - Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom. These driving modes can be selected via the steering wheel, and change the character of the car, by adjusting the parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), N Corner Carving Differential, engine sound, steering and Rev matching.
There’s launch control too. And like its hot hatch sibling, it features an Electronic Sound Generator, which provides the occupants of the i30 Fastback N with a real high-performance experience, a sporty engine sound. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen, is an engine sound generator which provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver. The interior is focused on connecting the driver with the car at all touch points. The concept is dedicated to the people who truly love cars. The Fastback N features uniquely designed high-performance sport seats with significant lumbar support.
As you would expect, it looks very similar to the i30 N hatch, with the rear being the only real difference. Here it gets a redesigned rear bumper with an integrated diffuser housing twin pipes, whilst a slim gloss black boot spoiler further hints at its sportiness. As with all N models, the car was tuned and tested at the Nurburgring, so expect handling to be stellar.
The i30 Fastback is expected to bow at next week's Paris Motor Show, and even though it’s early days, don't expect Hyundai SA to bring it to South Africa.
Also worth a look: the Hyundai Creta: Matte Edition Headlines 2024 Refresh and the IONIQ 5 N Wins TopGear's 2023 Car of the Year.
FAQ
Q: What does the Hyundai i30 Fastback N cost in South Africa?
The Hyundai i30 Fastback N starts at around R650,000 for the standard 184kW version, while the Performance Package with 202kW will set you back approximately R680,000, making it a properly quick hot hatch that won't completely empty your bank account.
Q: Is the Hyundai i30 Fastback N worth buying?
Absolutely, the i30 Fastback N delivers proper performance with 202kW, a brilliant manual gearbox, and five driving modes for under R700,000, making it one of the best value hot hatches you can buy in SA right now.
Q: How fast is the Hyundai i30 Fastback N?
The Performance Package version rockets from 0-100kph in just 6.1 seconds and hits a top speed of 250kph, which is seriously quick for a front-wheel-drive hatchback that costs less than a premium SUV.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Hyundai i30 Fastback N?
The i30 Fastback N goes head-to-head with the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Honda Civic Type R, and Ford Focus ST, but it undercuts most of them on price while delivering similar or better performance figures.
Q: Does the Hyundai i30 Fastback N only come with a manual transmission?
Yes, the i30 Fastback N only comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox, which is brilliant news for driving purists who want proper control over their 202kW of turbocharged fury.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you absolutely should buy the Hyundai i30 Fastback N, especially the Performance Package at R680,000. The best hot hatch under R700,000 in SA is definitely this Korean rocket ship. You get 202kW of turbocharged power, a proper manual gearbox, launch control, and five driving modes that'll keep you entertained from your morning commute to weekend track days. Sure, it's front-wheel drive and the interior isn't as posh as a Golf GTI, but at this price point with this much performance and character, the i30 Fastback N is an absolute steal that'll put a permanent grin on your face.
