Hyundai RM16 N Concept Is More Than a Pumped-Up Veloster

Compared to the 2.0-liter turbo-four that will motivate the Hyundai i30 N hot hatchback, the Hyundai RM16 N Concept boasts a 2.0-liter T-GDI with 296 horsepower (300 PS) and 283 lb-ft (383 Nm) of torque. Another difference between the two is how the power is put to the ground. Just like the current generation, the 2017 Hyundai i30 is built on a FWD platform. The Veloster-derived concept, on the other hand, is RWD.

Thanks to a weight distribution of 43 percent front and 57 percent rear, the Hyundai RM16 N promises to be a hoot to drive. Other goodies that enhance the handling characteristics of the concept vehicle come in the form of an electronic limited-slip differential, an electronically controlled variable exhaust system, a rear spoiler that raises automatically under certain driving scenarios, and a manual with a short-throw shifter.

Albert Biermann, the head honcho of vehicle test & high-performance development at Hyundai Motor, had the following to declare about this gutsy concept: “RM models will continue to play an important role as the ‘rolling lab’ in the development of our future high-performance ‘N’ cars.”

Styling elements such as the headlights and taillights represent a sneak peak into the next-generation Hyundai Veloster. According to a Hyundai Motor America representative, the second iteration of the compact sports car is designed by the team that penned the Santa Cruz pickup truck.

The N treatment will also trickle down to the Genesis luxury division. Biermann, who used to work at BMW as vice president of engineering, declared that we “have to be ready for N versions for Hyundai and Genesis. More than one.” Don’t know about you, but the high-performance future of Hyundai holds promise.