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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