Hyundai planning standalone N model – report

The Hyundai N performance sub-brand has only been around for a short time, but the Korean manufacturer is already planning a standalone halo model to "bring more emotion" – according to a new report.

Speaking with the UK's Auto Express, Hyundai's vice president for high-performance and motorsport, Thomas Schemera, indicated the N division is entering a new chapter.

"The whole idea is to strengthen the Hyundai brand, to bring more emotion," he said, noting that the i30 N (hatch/fastback) and Veloster N are the "completion of the first phase of N vehicles".

"I can tell you Albert Biermann [Hyundai engineering boss] and myself are interested in hot things and have some ideas in the pipeline for a halo model - rest assured we are coming up with something."

According to the British publication, Hyundai is having an internal debate as to what form this halo model will take – it could be a two-seater sports car or a performance sedan, a-la the Kia Stinger.

Due to the reported internal discussions, the standalone N model could still be several years away from production.

One possibility could be a production version of the mid-engined RM16 N concept that debuted in June 2016, complete wiht a 220kW/383Nm 2.0-litre turbo four – there's even spy photos of one testing at the Nurburgring (above).

Hyundai N will also expand into other model lines beyond the i30 and Veloster ranges as well. There's been numerous reports regarding N versions of the Kona and Tucson crossovers, along with a hi-po version of the pint-sized i20 sold overseas.

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