2018 HYUNDAI i30 N PERFORMANCE

The Hyundai i30 N is the marque’s first foray into the hot hatch world, and has been lauded by the motoring press as being a remarkably good rival to the more established competition. This 2018 example of the range-topping ‘N Performance’ model is finished in Micron Grey with Oceanids Black interior and has covered only 14,962 miles from new.

The i30 N Performance benefits from additional power over the standard model, bringing the total to 275hp from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The brakes are also reinforced, and it is equipped with an electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip differential and active variable exhaust. Power is deployed through a six-speed manual transmission, which also features a selectable rev-matching function, and even incorporates launch control. The result is an impressive and accessible driver’s car.

The car was registered on 1 September 2018, and is offered by the first and only owner from new. A true enthusiast, the seller has kept the car is excellent condition, driving it regularly and washing it frequently. He describes its performance as giving it a ‘David among Goliaths’ character, helped in no small part by the adjustability offered for the dampers, steering, throttle response, boost and differential.

As a result of this enthusiast ownership, the bodywork is in excellent condition, with the care and attention taken in the cleaning regime paying dividends. There is a small stone chip next to the driver’s side headlight, but the Micron Grey finish presents very smartly indeed. The car rides on the original 19-inch alloys, which are still in good order, with only minor kerbing marks on one or two wheels. The factory-fitted Pirelli P-Zero tyres, developed specifically for the i30N, are in great shape, with around 4mm of tread remaining.

The interior is in fantastic condition, with only superficial scuffs to the driver’s door panel from entering and exiting the car. The upholstery is a combination of black leather and synthetic suede, which is undamaged and shows only minimal signs of use, and the front seats are electrically adjustable. The owner also specified the ‘Winter Pack’ option from the factory, which includes heated seats, a heated steering wheel and heated door mirrors.

Other equipment includes climate control, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, LED headlights, and the Lane Keeping Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking safety features. The media system has satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as DAB digital radio. There is also a wireless charging pad for smartphones in the centre console.

Due to the low mileage and careful single ownership, the car is in perfect mechanical condition. It received its first annual service on 1 September 2019, exactly one year to the day after first registration. The first MOT test is not due until September 2021. Hyundai’s standard five-year (60,000 mile) warranty provides peace-of-mind cover until September 2023.

Summing up the model at launch, Evo magazine concluded: “The i30 N Performance, as it stands, isn’t just a pretty stunning first effort from Hyundai’s N division, it’s a pretty stunning effort full stop”.

A diligently cared-for example of one of the great contemporary hot hatches, this represents a terrific opportunity to acquire a car at a significant saving over list price, but one that remains in superb condition. This i30 N Performance is a consummate all-rounder with a very high factory specification, and is sure to delight its next owner.