The Hyundai i30 Fastback N was only unveiled 13
months ago and already, the South Korean car manufacturer has started work on a
facelifted version. We’ve know about Hyundai developing an update to the regular i30 for
quite some time so it only makes sense that the upgrades set to be enjoyed by
lesser models will also find their way onto the i30 N hatchback and Fastback
variants.
This particular prototype spied near Hyundai’s
facility at the Nurburgring is clad in thick camouflage to hide its design. The
usual array of re-designed exterior parts are expected to feature, including
different headlights, a bespoke grille, and tweaked bumpers. Much larger dual
tailpipes are also featured on this tester.
We suspect Hyundai will tweak the engine of the
facelifted i30 N models to give it a little extra grunt. However, it’s unlikely
that power will be increased to match the 306 hp of the Honda Civic Type R. Inside, the current i30 N model
feels very much the same as a lesser i30. In fact, the most significant changes
include some red stitching, two additional buttons on the steering wheel, and a
shifter for the six-speed manual transmission that comes standard. We would like
to see Hyundai make the cabin of the i30 N feel more special than it currently
does with more premium surfaces. Some carbon fiber wouldn’t go astray, for
example.
The facelifted Hyundai i30 N will probably be
unveiled before the end of 2020 and hit the market soon after.
