Eight speeds for Hyundai's best-ever driver's car.

Despite only arriving in South Africa last year, an updated version of Hyundai’s exciting i30 N has been revealed.

The Korean car company’s most exciting vehicle now sports a new grille and front bumper. Both these enhancements to the front of i30 N appear to be purely a case of styling, without any aerodynamic influence.

Around the rear, there are new taillights and a reprofiled bumper section, whilethe exhaust ends look slightly larger in diameter too – although this specification has not been confirmed by Hyundai.

In terms of improved aerodynamics, the ‘newer’ version of Hyundai’s i30 N does have some interesting feature attached to the rear of the car. The diffuser and tailgate’s roof spoiler have both grown in size, which should produce a touch more downforce at higher speeds.

Rolling the updated i30 N along are 19-inch alloy wheels with a more open spoke structure.

Mechanically the car retains its current tune, which means a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, good for 202 kW and 353 Nm of torque. The big news is a new gearbox option, with i30 N finally gaining the promised eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The ability to use paddle-shifting and advanced software to execute incrediblyswift and accurate gear changes, will no doubt elevate the i30 N driving experience for enthusiastswho are not given to enjoying a manual transmission. It also puts the Hyundai dead-square in the sights of the upcoming Golf GTI, where the DSG 'box has become the most popular choice of shifter.

Right-hand drive versions of the updated i30 N are expected to arrive in their relevant markets midway through 2021.

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