Hyundai i30 N Line to launch with more noise, Michelin tyres
New variant likely to use SR as a base, filling the gap between core range and hi-po N.
Hyundai is set to announce an N Line for the i30 range very soon, and it's likely to feature added punch and more noise.
Speaking to CarAdvice at the launch of the updated Tucson, Hyundai's head of product planning was keen to point out noise and performance is a consideration for the new product line.
"It's something we're looking into. I think we should see an N Line-equipped i30 here, if not by the end of this year, then early next year. We're not sure what that relationship will be if we throw it into the mix relative to SR," said Andrew Tuitahi.
"So we're still exploring that at the moment but, if we do it, we'll make sure that it's the 1.6-litre turbo."
"The local strategy, while not completely nailed down, I think we're going to need to make sure that that styling is packaged with a performance engine and some kind of actual on-road dynamic enhancements," he added.
When asked whether Hyundai would address criticism from customers that models like the SR don't make enough noise, Tuitahi wouldn't commit to a noise source, but suggested it's a top priority for N Line vehicles, along with decent tyres.
"I couldn't confirm an active exhaust or bi-modal but certainly there are some considerations to sound and noise. As you mentioned, some slight criticisms against SR, things like noise, maybe the styling's a little bit too conservative for some, so it goes some ways to addressing that. It'll pick up Michelin Pilot Sport 4s, so that takes care of the tyres as well."
Click here for more images. Overseas model shown
What would you like to see on a future Hyundai i30 N Line? How hard should Hyundai go with the styling?
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