Following its initial reveal earlier this year in overseas form, and its Australian debut at the World Time Attack Challenge, Hyundai has officially unveiled the 2024 i30 Sedan N – also known as the Elantra N in other markets.
Firstly, the hardware changes? Well, there aren’t many fundamental changes but the engineers have revised the ride and handling characteristics to improve agility and refinement. The engine mount membrane has been reinforced to reduce after-shake, for example.
Reinforcements have been made to the G-bushing to shorten yaw response time and improve steering sharpness, while the S/ABS insulator for the rear suspension has been swapped to urethane from rubber to enhance damping and yaw response.
In other areas, the Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) has been tuned to offer better body control, with corresponding software tweaks, and the steering box yoke has been altered to offer better feedback through the wheel.
To really fine-tune the setup, Hyundai N now recommends 36psi in the front tyres and 34 in the back, up from 35/33. This is to compensate for increased loads on the front axle. Some changes to the intakes have also been applied to maximise the radiator surface and cooling.
Speaking of the design, we already know the 2024 model adopts a fresh look, particularly at the front, with a full-width trim connecting to slimmer headlights. However, now we know the front bumper has been designed to improve airflow and maximise cooling for the brakes as well, enhancing track performance, and the new chin spoiler aims to improve aerodynamics at high speed.
Other exterior changes include Hyundai’s latest flush-style badge that’s anodised black for the performance model, while the rear bumper bar trim is larger and incorporates a boat tail styling tweak to express the new model’s sporty dynamics.
As for the engine, the new model retains the cracking 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine from before. It produces 206kW and 392Nm, matched to either a six-speed manual or eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. Acceleration figures haven’t been mentioned, but the outgoing model offered an official 0-100km/h claim of 5.3 seconds (5.8 for the manual) – the quickest petrol N model ever. Hyundai says the top speed is 280km/h.
Inside, the 2024 i30 Sedan N welcomes the N light sports seats in the front with illuminated logos, as expected, and there’s an N steering wheel and gear selector, as well as N-specific graphics for the instrument cluster and touch-screen system.
For the first time, Hyundai is launching the new model in China. The nameplate is already one of the most popular N models, and now launching in China it will surely steam further ahead. As part of the unveiling Hyundai has released a promo film featuring real N vehicle owners. See below.
Hyundai Australia says the new model is scheduled to launch early in 2024. Prices and local specs are yet to be confirmed.
