Hyundai‘s recent announcement of the discontinuation of the i30 N and i20 N for the European market marks the end of an era for the brand’s ICE-powered performance lineup in the region.
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Production of these models will cease, reflecting Hyundai’s strategic pivot towards an electric-focused future. This decision follows the introduction of the highly anticipated Ioniq 5 N EV and is part of Hyundai’s broader commitment to offering a zero-tailpipe-emission lineup by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.
The i30 N, introduced in 2017 as Hyundai’s first high-performance production car, quickly garnered attention and acclaim. With over 25 000 units sold in Europe, it became a symbol of Hyundai’s ambition in the performance segment. Despite winning prestigious awards like the Auto Bild Sports Car of the Year in 2018, the i30 N’s tenure will be cut short, leaving behind a dedicated community of enthusiasts known as “N-enthusiasts.”
Related: CPS 2023: And the winner is… the superlative Hyundai i30N
Similarly, the i20 N was positioned as a bold contender in the competitive hot hatch market, challenging rivals like the Fiesta ST and Polo GTI. Equipped with a potent 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and a six-speed manual transmission, the i20 N boasted impressive performance figures, clocking max power at 150 kW. However, its existence will be short-lived, despite its potential to make a lasting impact.
The decision to discontinue these models represents a significant shift in Hyundai’s approach to performance vehicles in Europe. While the i30 N and i20 N showcased Hyundai’s engineering prowess and performance capabilities, they will soon fade into obscurity as the company shifts its focus towards high-performance electric vehicles.
In the 2023 edition of the CAR Performance Shootout, the underdog i30 N managed to clinch overall honours, attesting to the car’s capabilities and driver-oriented feel. Expecting the same from the South Korean firm’s electric model is a large ask with the legacy the petrol-powered N models have left.
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