The Hyundai i30 N is currently offered with a single
transmission, a six-speed manual, in both standard and Performance Package
versions. However, from late 2019, customers will be able to order it with a dual-clutch
gearbox as an optional extra.
The decision was taken as a result of the current
models being considered limited in terms of sales, and while petrol heads will
likely stick to the manual gearbox, the DCT will appeal to a wider range of
consumers. After all, despite the fact that stick shifts continue to be
appreciated in performance models, the majority of buyers are moving towards
automated transmissions.
The new DCT will likely be a seven-speeder, as the
Korean automaker offers it on other models like the Veloster, i40 and Tucson,
and should shave something off the Hyundai i30 N’s 0-100 km/h acceleration, as is usually the case with dual-clutch transmissions. The base
model, with its 250 PS, takes 6.4 seconds for the sprint, while the
275 PS Performance Package is 0.3 seconds quicker.
Drivers will still be able to choose between the
five different driving modes, Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom, which are
operated via steering wheel controls. Depending on the selected mode, the hot
hatch’s suspension, ESC, steering, sound and some engine parameters are
adjusted accordingly.
Adding the DCT option will also make the Hyundai i30
N a bit more expensive, though pricing will be announced closer to its launch
date.
