Paris Motor Show: Hyundai RN 30 concept unveiled

Hyundai takes the wraps off the insane RN 30 concept at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. Based around the new gen i30 hatchback, the concept will hit the production line in 2017.

Traditionally, Hyundai is known for making feature-rich, comfortable and no-nonsense every day cars. But, here’s something that will change your perception about the Korean brand completely. At the 2016 Paris Motor Show – which is currently underway as we speak – Hyundai unveiled the mental RN 30 concept. For starters, it’s based around the new-gen i30 hatchback, previewing Hyundai’s first ever high-performance ‘N’ car that goes on sale in 2017.

The ‘N’ division is Hyundai’s new performance arm that will specialize in developing high-performance machines for the brand. The RN 30 concept gives first glimpse of the first product that will come out of the N division. Although, it’s definitely not going to be as outlandish or aggressive as the concept. Which means it won’t have those massive ‘floating’ wheel-arches, full aero body kit, bucket seats with racing harnesses, roll cage or a racing steering wheel.

What it can retain from the concept though is its powertrain – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit that develops an insane 375bhp of maximum power and 451Nm of peak torque. For the road-going version, power figure may drop to around 250-300bhp, though. Power goes to all four wheels using a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Again, it's not confirmed if the production version will come with all-wheel drive or not. Regardless, Hyundai insists that it will be a serious ‘track’ machine.

In addition to that, the concept features a special ‘Electronic Variable Exhaust system’ which will provide ‘’a surge of aural pleasure by emitting a strong exhaust sound consistent with the visceral sensations produced by the rapid acceleration”. Other than that it gets a limited-slip differential system to help put the power down cleanly during high-speed cornering.

Commenting at the unveiling ceremony of the RN 30, Albert Biermann, head of Hyundai’s N Performance division, said; "RN30 embodies the concept of a strong, high-performance car that brings dynamic, sporty driving. Soon to evolve into our first N model, the RN30 is inspired by our passion to provide a high-performance car that our customers can enjoy effortlessly. We have drawn on our technological expertise - honed through our motorsport successes - to deliver emotional delight through an engaging blend of performance and control, the goal Hyundai's N strives to achieve in future performance models."

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