Hyundai's most dynamic model yet is not far away.
The booming brand is set to unveil a motorsport-inspired i30 concept at next week's Paris motor show alongside the road-going version of its new hatchback. Dubbed the RN30 Concept it previews the brand's first model from its new N high performance division.
Hot hatches such as the Volkswagen Golf R and Ford Focus RS are the focus of the brand's new performance arm, which is headed by former BMW M Division executive Albert Biermann. The manufacturer has invested heavily at a new research and development centre at the Nurburgring, where it has been testing the upcoming model and competing in endurance races for production cars.
Hyundai says the new RN30 concept builds on the new i30's styling with "purposeful aerodynamic design" as well as a lower, wider stance to offer optimum grip on road and track.
The production version is likely to be powered by a tuned version of the brand's turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine offering around 200kW of grunt. Big brakes and tyres will also be part of the package, which will include pumped-up bodywork and a sporting interior.
Drive will bring all the latest news from the Paris motor show next week.
Comments