2017 Hyundai i30 N Hot Hatch Spied Testing Former BMW M Boss Biermann’s Intentions

We’ve recently spotted the prototype testing on the Nurburgring, with this making a statement about former BMW M boss Albert Biermann’s intentions. The executive now helms the South Korean carmaker’s speedy offensive and since this is the first product of this kind, the car will have a lot to tell us.

Biermann joined Hyundai last year and we’ll see plenty of other spicy models, some of which will be launched with Kia badges. For one thing, it will be interesting to see how the N people will differentiate corresponding models from the Hyundai and Kia sister brands.

Unsurprisngly, Hyundai is taking things gradually, so rather than aiming to the peak of the segment, where quite a lot over 300 horsepowe is no longer something extravagant, the company will target the entry point where the Golf GTI plays.

This means the i30 N will allow its driver to control around 200 hp, while delivering performance in the 7s area of the 0 to 60 sprint. Expect the engine compartment to pack a turbocharged 1.6-liter mill, which is the configuration used by Hyundai’s World Rally Championship machine.

The next vehicle for Hyundai’s N division is expected to be a three-door i20 pocket rocket. This was supposed to lead the way for the carmaker’s go-fast arm, but since the standard model was delayed, we’ll get the i30 as the company’s first hot hatch.

While the i30 N is a certainty, we hope the fast setup will also make its way onto the US Elantra GT. The i30 N is expected to be launched next year and we'll have plenty of extra info by then.