2020 Hyundai i30 N Project C revealed, exclusive to the European market

A lighter, lower, and aggressive version of Hyundai N is ready to uncover at the Frankfurt Motor Show with the name 2020 i30 N Project C. The version is exclusively for European buyers and limited up to 600 units. On the oily bits, it is powered by 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 274 PS of power and 353 Nm of torque, same as the earlier N performance variants but in the context of styling, it features cosmetic and mechanical upgrades taken from previous year's i30 N Option concept to drop 50 kg from the 'standard' car.

The extended use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic for the vehicle parts like the front splitter, rear diffuser, bonnet, and N-branded side sill contributes to the weight savings of the vehicle. The C letter in the name implies the use of CFRP components, which is used by the company for the first time. Also, 'Project C' stands for two other things; the firm's secret high-performance circuit at its Namyang R&D Center called 'Area C', and the lowered centre of gravity of the vehicle.

The set of forged 19-inch OZ Racing alloy wheels also contributed to the lighter version by shedding 22kg of mass. Moreover, the rear wheel hangers are made up of aluminum which also sheds 4.66kg. Compared to i30 N, the vehicle is lowered by 6 mm, which in turn helps to lower the centre of gravity by 8.8 mm through new internal calibrations for the dampers and shorter higher-stiffness suspension springs. 

Inside the cabin, a range of Alcantara trimmings and race-inspired appointments can be found, some of which are taken from the i30 N Option concept from Paris Motor Show of the previous year. Major alterations include Sabelt bucket seats trimmed in leather/Alcantara combination with Deep Orange highlights, Alcantara handbrake, an Alcantara steering wheel, a brushed aluminum shifter, and Alcantara gear stick boot.

The i30 N Project C will be available for sale in the European market by the year-end and priced at $40,490 before on-road costs for the hatchback and $41,990 before on-roads costs for the Fastback coupe, As the edition is limited to Europe only, Hyundai Australia showrooms cannot expect it for now. 

Also read: Hyundai IONIQ obtains five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating