Hyundai i30 N Fastback spied testing in colder climes
Our spy photographers have photographed a Hyundai i30 N Fastback being put through its paces in winter testing.
Pictures have emerged of the forthcoming Hyundai i30 N Fastback undergoing winter testing before it hits showrooms either later this year or early in 2019. Although heavily disguised, these images reveal enough to confirm that this high-performance version of the recently revealed five-door machine that combines hatchback practicality with some sleek coupe styling cues.
Based on the same underpinnings as the standard i30 N, the Fastback is likely to be the third model to come from Hyundai’s ambitious and sporty N sub-brand (the second is the Veloster N, which is unlikely to make it to the UK). Developed under the watchful eye of former BMW M supremo Albert Biermann, the Fastback is likely to sit a little higher up the pecking order than the hatchback, with rumours suggesting that the turbocharged 2.0-litre will have around 300bhp, which is 29bhp more than the current i30 N Performance Pack.
Information is still thin on the ground, but these images suggest that the Fastback could be a slightly more grown-up proposition, despite its possible power increase. The classy looking alloy wheels hide red brake calipers, plus there are deeper side skirts and twin-exit exhausts, but there are no signs of any wild aerodynamic additions. That said, the fabric disguise covering the bonnet features a pair of mesh panels, suggesting the Fastback could feature a vented bonnet.
It’s impossible to tell what changes have been made mechanically, but given it’s based on the i30 N hatchback, you can expect the same specification, which runs to adaptive dampers and a wide range of settings for the steering, throttle and suspension. Given that it’ll likely have more power, the Fastback will almost certainly get the clever electronically controlled locking differential from the current Performance-equipped machines.
Other carry-over features should include the rev-match system that matches engine, gearbox and road speed to deliver an automatic blip of the throttle during downshifts, plus the N shortcut key that allows you to access your favourite combination of dynamic settings at the touch of a button.
No prices have been revealed for the i30 N Fastback, but given its increased performance it could be up to £1000 more than the hatch when it finally goes on sale either late this year or early in 2019.
