Hyundai i30 N-Line UK pricing and specs announced
For those whom a Hyundai i30 N is a bit far out of the price range (or insurance group)
Hyundai has released pricing and specs of its new i30 N-Line in the UK, which promises to mimic the excellent i30 N’s distinctive styling treatment, if not its dynamic focus. Initially available with a sole 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the new N-Line is hoping to win over buyers with a similar format to Audi, BMW and Ford in offering the sportier styling without hikes in price or performance.
Prices will start at £21,225 for the entry level i30 N-Line, with a higher-specced N-Line+ sitting £2k up at £23,225. Both models will feature the same exterior elements as the i30 N, including its aggressive front airdam, side skirts and rear bumper treatment. The eagle-eyed among you will still be able to tell between them however, as the lesser models do without the dual exhaust outlets, red pin-stripes and taller rear wing.
All models are relatively well equipped, though, with standard 18-inch wheels, air-conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen display and a full suite of safety gear including 6 airbags and and emergency autonomous braking. ‘Plus’ models add to this with leather and faux suede bucket seats, automatic air-conditioning and LED headlights among other upgrades.
As previously mentioned, the sole engine choice at this stage is Hyundai’s 138bhp 1.4-litre T-GDi petrol engine, connected to either a six-speed manual, or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Hyundai has also paid attention to the driving dynamics, with a new suspension setup, sharper brakes and re-tuned throttle calibration all designed to improve the driving experience over standard i30 models.
As with its rivals, these changes are designed to appeal to buyers wanting a sportier look, without the compromises associated with fully-lit hot hatches like the i30 N. For most of us, that will seem like a dilution to the i30 N brand, but will likely appeal in much the same way as Ford’s ST-Line or Volkswagen’s R-line models that do so well for those established players.
