Hyundai Set to Test I30 N Hot Hatch at Nurburgring 24 Hours

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

Hyundai’s performance-focused N sub-brand is starting to take shape.

Hyundai first introduced the N sub-brand late last year and serves a similar function to BMW’s M division. Although Hyundai might not be the first brand you think of when it comes to extreme performance, the N sub-brand aims to change that perception — it’s being headed by former vice president of engineering at BMW M, Albert Biermann.

To prove it has what it takes, Hyundai is reportedly competing in this year’s Nurburgring 24 Hours race with three cars, two production models and a prototype. The production cars will be the familiar i30 1.6 Turbo (Elantra) and a Veloster while the prototype is an i30 N hot hatch sporting a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

SEE ALSO: Hyundai Teases N Performance Brand In Track-Focused Video

It appears that Hyundai wants to test the new powertrain at the world’s most grueling endurance race along with its suspension, steering and wider body. Naturally, don’t expect the production i30 N to look as aggressive as the race car, but it will likely draw inspiration so that it doesn’t look like your standard Elantra hatchback.

Hyundai is no stranger to what the Nurburgring has to offer, as the Korean automaker has a permanent engineering development center at the Nurburgring.

[Source: Car]

Discuss this story on our Hyundai Performance Forum

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

More by Jason Siu

Comments
Join the conversation
Next