CAPE TOWN — Hyundai Motors has increased its presence in South Africa by launching its first mass-produced high-performance car, i30 N in Cape Town.

Hyundai Motors plans to launch the i30 N model in the Middle East toward the end of 2020, even as it unveiled its first mass-produced high-performance car in Cape Town last Thursday.

The first model of the N brand, the i30 N is Hyundai’s first ever high-performance car and has been developed with a key focus on its racetrack capability and its ability to be a fun to drive everyday sports car.

Advanced technology and a high level of driver customization has been built into the i30 N, which means it can play the role of a comfort-oriented commuter as well as a race-track ready performance car.

The i30 N has a 1 998 cc, 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with its maximum power output of 202 kW is reached at 6 000 r/min., while maximum torque is achieved from 1 500 to 4 700 r/min.

The power is delivered to the front wheels of the i30 N through a 6-speed manual gearbox and has five different drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom which can be accessed through two dedicated buttons on the car’s steering wheel.

The i30 N has a rev matching function built in to adjust the engine revolutions when the driver shifts from a higher to a lower gear, thereby ensuring smooth gear shifting. The dual muffler exhaust sounds add to the pleasure of commanding a true high-performance vehicle.

Speaking at the launch Niall Lynch, the CEO of Hyundai Automotive South said: “The i30 N is one of the most exciting cars Hyundai has made in the recent years highlighting Hyundai’s talented designers and engineers who are always setting new standards.

“It is a high-performance car meant to deliver a fun driving experience and I have no doubt there’s a bright future in store for the Hyundai i30 N in South Africa. It has already been described as a ‘game changer’ with more than 20,000 units sold across Europe since we started trading in 2017.”

The i30 N also has stylish 19-inch wheels with 235/35R19 Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tyres and red brake callipers featuring the N-logo. Aggressive bumpers with larger air intakes and a red character line, an aerodynamic rear spoiler with a triangular brake light, and a dual muffler exhaust complete the sleek, sporty look.

Build to stand out, the i30 N has inspired styling elements synonymous with Hyundai Motorsports race cars. I30 N also features the Electronically Controlled suspension (ECS) and Electronically Controlled Limited Slip Differential which ensures an exhilarating drive with cornering capabilities that befits the i30 N’s hot-hatch character.

Customers can choose from five exciting colour options – Polar White, Performance Blue, Micron Grey, Phantom Black and Engine Red. — SG