Hyundai RN30 concept targets Ford Focus RS

Hyundai's N Performance division has offered a glimpse of its first performance car by unveiling a ferocious i30 hot hatch concept at the 2016 Paris motor show.

The RN30 concept features a turbocharged engine with forged internals that sends 280kW of power and 451Nm to all four wheels through a dual-clutch automatic transmission - figures that rival the latest Mercedes-AMG A45 hot hatch.

Hyundai says the concept uses clever electronically-controlled differentials to send power where it is required, delivering optimum traction in a variety of circumstances.

Lower and wider bodywork cloaking fat 19-inch wheels is partially made of new lightweight, high-strength plastics instead of more expensive carbon fibre.

The car also features inbuilt action cameras mounted within the cabin and bodywork, allowing customers to record their driving highlights.

Former BMW M executive Albert Biermann, Hyundai's head of vehicle testing and high performance development, says the "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 everybody can enjoy effortlessly," he says.

"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."

While undoubtedly a concept car, the RN30 offers the clearest indication yet as to how Hyundai's performance arm plans to tackle cars such as the Ford Focus RS and Volkswagen Golf R.

Previous concept cars from the brand such as mid-engined Velosters and the Vision Gran Turismo were flights of fancy, while Hyundai has been spotted testing wide-bodied, turbocharged i30 hatchbacks at the Nurburgring in Germany.

Hyundai's first N-badged machine is unlikely to offer all-wheel-drive, targeting front-drive hot hatches such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST as opposed to the all-wheel-drive Golf R and Focus RS. That car is expected to make its official debut in the second half of 2017.

• Read more Hyundai news and reviews.

• Share via Email
• Post on facebook wall
• Share on Google Plus
• Share on twitter