Review: 2021 Hyundai i30 III Fastback N Performance 2.0 T-GDi

The 2021 Hyundai i30 III Fastback N Performance is a sporty and stylish option for those seeking a blend of performance and practicality. With its sleek fastback design and powerful engine, this car is designed to turn heads while delivering an exhilarating driving experience. But how does it stack up for different types of drivers? Let's dive into the details.

Understanding the Basics

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's break down some key terms. The Hyundai i30 is a 'fastback,' which means it has a sloping rear roofline that gives it a sporty look, similar to a coupe but with the practicality of a hatchback. The 'N Performance' badge indicates that this model is part of Hyundai's high-performance line, designed for those who crave speed and agility.

Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, which means it uses a turbocharger to increase power output without increasing engine size. This engine produces 280 horsepower (Hp) and 392 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque (a measure of rotational force), making it quite powerful for its class.

Performance and Driving Experience

The i30 N Performance is all about delivering a thrilling drive. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just a few seconds, thanks to its turbocharged engine. With a top speed of 249 km/h (about 155 mph), it's more than capable of handling highway speeds with ease.

The car features a front-wheel-drive system, which means the engine powers the front wheels. This setup is common in many cars and provides good traction and handling, especially in dry conditions. The i30 N Performance also comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, giving drivers full control over gear changes for a more engaging driving experience.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

City Driving

For city dwellers, the i30 N Performance offers a compact size and responsive handling, making it easy to navigate through traffic and park in tight spaces. However, its sporty suspension might feel a bit firm on rough city roads.

Long-Distance Travel

With a comfortable interior and a decent trunk space of 436 liters (15.4 cubic feet), this car can handle long road trips. The fuel tank capacity of 50 liters (13.2 US gallons) allows for reasonable travel distances between fill-ups, though its sporty nature might lead to higher fuel consumption.

Family Use

While the i30 N Performance can seat five, its sporty design might not offer the same level of rear-seat comfort or cargo space as a traditional family sedan or SUV. It's more suited for small families or couples.

Single Ownership

For singles or couples who enjoy driving, this car offers a perfect blend of style and performance. Its sporty appeal and engaging drive make it a great choice for those who prioritize fun over practicality.

Adventure Lifestyles

While not an off-roader, the i30 N Performance can handle weekend getaways with ease. Its trunk space expands to 1337 liters (47.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded, providing ample room for gear.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: Powerful engine, sporty design, engaging driving experience.
Weaknesses: Firm ride quality, limited rear-seat comfort, higher fuel consumption.

Conclusion

The 2021 Hyundai i30 III Fastback N Performance is a compelling choice for those who value performance and style. It's best suited for individuals or small families who enjoy a spirited drive and don't mind sacrificing a bit of comfort for the thrill of the road. Think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space, or is a sporty drive more important?

Specifications Table

Attribute	Details
Generation	i30 III Fastback (facelift 2020)
Modification (Engine)	N Performance 2.0 T-GDi (280 Hp)
Powertrain Architecture	Internal Combustion engine
Body Type	Fastback
Seats	5
Doors	5
Combined Fuel Consumption	Not specified
CO2 Emissions	Not specified
Fuel Type	Petrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	Not specified
Maximum Speed	249 km/h (154.72 mph)
Emission Standard	Euro 6d
Engine Displacement	1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.)
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	280 Hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque	392 Nm @ 2100-4700 rpm
Compression Ratio	9.5:1
Fuel Injection System	Direct injection
Engine Aspiration	Turbocharger, Intercooler
Kerb Weight	1431-1511 kg (3154.81 - 3331.18 lbs.)
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)	436 l (15.4 cu. ft.) - 1337 l (47.22 cu. ft.)
Fuel Tank Capacity	50 l (13.21 US gal \| 11 UK gal)
Length	4455 mm (175.39 in.)
Width	1795 mm (70.67 in.)
Height	1445 mm (56.89 in.)
Wheelbase	2650 mm (104.33 in.)
Drive Wheel System	Front wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	6 gears, manual transmission
Front Suspension	Independent type McPherson
Rear Suspension	Independent multi-link suspension
Front Brakes	Disc, 345 mm
Rear Brakes	Disc, 314 mm
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	235/35 R19 Y
Wheel Rims Size	8.0J x 19