New engine announced for Hyundai i30 N Line

Hyundai has introduced a new entry-level model for its i30 N Line, combining the muscular looks of the Hyundai i30 N hot hatch with a more economical three-cylinder petrol engine. Prices for the new variant start at £19,995.

The nippy 118bhp engine is already popular with Hyundai buyers and it’s been tweaked to sharpen its responsiveness for the N Line version. The newly added 1.0-litre petrol engine joins a 138bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged T-GDI petrol engine in the range. The 1.0-litre will do 0-62mph in just under nine seconds.

The N Line trim level inspired by the i30 N hot hatch, allows the standard i30 to compete directly against the Ford Focus ST-Line and Vauxhall Astra SRi VX Line.

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The Hyundai i30 N Line imitates the style of the i30 N with aggressively styled front and rear bumpers and an exclusive silver paint highlights on certain pieces of exterior trim. A set of 18-inch alloy wheels is fitted, along with twin exhaust pipes; N Line badging completes the exterior package.

Hyundai claims that the N-Line isn't just about show, either – the N team has been at work on the i30's suspension, brakes and steering to give the car a more nimble response in corners. Grippy Michelin PS4 Performance tyres are fitted, along with larger front brake discs – 16 inches compared to 15 inches on the regular i30. The 1.0-litre engine is available in the six-speed manual only, whereas the 1.4-litre engine has the option of a seven-speed dual clutch automatic.

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Two versions of the N Line package are available. All have sports front seats with part-electric adjustment on the driver's side. Privacy glass, black headlining material and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror are also fitted. A perforated leather sports steering wheel and N-branded gearknob are claimed to provide a more tactile feel than those in the regular i30 hatchback, too.

Stepping up to N Line + brings upholstery in leather and suede, with heating and power adjustment for driver and passenger seats, plus the driver's seat gets a memory feature. There's a heated steering wheel, too, as well as dual-zone climate control. N Line + also adds LED headlamps and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.

The 118bhp 1.0-litre i30 N Line six-speed manual starts at £19,995, with the N Line + starting at £23,255.