Too Little Too Late? Hyundai's N Branded Hot Hatch To Have 275HP

On July 13, Hyundai will take the wraps off the most anxiously awaited variant of the i30. N is its calling card and based on the following teaser, it seems likely the engine of the compact-sized hot hatchback develops 280 metric ponies (or 276 horsepower) and 400 Nm (295 pound-feet) of oomph.

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TheSteve - 7/7/2017 10:56:59 AM

+2 Boost

My understanding is that Hyundai is successful because they are what Volkswagen should have been: A company that produces practical people movers, sold at a modest price, with a reasonable level of "quality", few initial defects, good longevity, infrequent breakdowns, modest repair and maintenance costs, and low total cost of ownership. Nothing flashy. Just a good, affordable, and good-value-for-the-dollar people mover. Oh, and the service center treats you pretty well, too.

If my assessment is accurate, then exceptionally few Hyundai shoppers care about a ton of horsepower, especially if it's going to cost them considerably more.

Additionally, the "Too Little Too Late" subject is way out of line, as it spins Hyundai to sound like they're suffering for some reason. They're doing just fine in their segment.

MDarringer - 7/7/2017 8:09:50 PM

-1 Boost

Well stated.

cidflekken - 7/7/2017 3:09:27 PM

+2 Boost

I don't think it's "too late". Honda and Toyota have introduced higher- performance models of the Civic and Camry, and I don't doubt that more is to come. So from that perspective, Hyundai may be entering the fray at just the right time since to many younger buyers, this non-premium performance boom may seem like a "new thing" despite VS and Ford offering cars like the GTI and Focus RS for a few years.

The "too little" part will depend on where the "N" badged cars fall on price. If priced at the same level as say, a Civic Si or GTI, then they have the power advantage. If priced against the Civic Type-R or Golf R, then they are underpowered comparably.

cidflekken - 7/7/2017 3:44:22 PM

+1 Boost

Oops, meant VW.

mini22 - 7/11/2017 9:11:03 PM

+1 Boost

Well both Hyundai and Kia are definitely improving on this score.The Elantra Sport is a prime example. It has an independent rear suspension with 201 turbo four. Is it at the top of the heap in terms of affordable spot sedans and hatches. No. However it is only a couple of rungs down and it is also quite a bit cheaper. I think it might be a harder choice between this or a Jetta GLI. I might still choose a Civic Si 4dr over this but you have to agree that they have come a long way from the 80's.