Although Hyundai will start its N performance sub-brand with an i30N never ever to reach U.S. coasts, head of performance development Albert Biermann however assures he hasn’t neglected the important North American market.” [The U.S.] can expect to be extremely delighted and satisfied for what’s coming,” stated Biermann, speaking at Hyundai’s Namyang test center. “We won’t let you down, don’t worry.”
Biermann also verified that America’s first Hyundai N model will get here in 2018, highlighting the product timeline we saw showing something to come in the first quarter of that year. When asked if the still-unannounced car will be a Veloster N, he merely smiled and said we would need to wait and see. Speaking usually about the next Veloster, Biermann noted that while the design will be identifiable, the car has been totally revamped. “It will have a whole different driving character and performance. Anticipate it to be a lot more developed,” he informed Auto.
Meanwhile, at the Namyang research and development facility, we saw numerous variations of the upcoming Veloster zipping around, all covered up and camouflaged. Looking inside, it seems like a next Veloster Turbo, finished with a six-speed manual, updated interior consisting of contrasting red stitching, fancy new wheels, and dual center-mounted exhaust tips. Other models, perhaps for the Veloster N, with a much louder exhaust note included dual exhaust ports each placed at the edges of the bumper.
There is an internal plan of N-branded vehicles for several years to come, however right now that does not consist of an SUV or crossover, and not all Hyundai will get an N model. Dual-clutch transmissions and four-wheel drive are possible from an engineering perspective.
While agreeing that the sports market is narrow, Hyundai is open to future sports-car advancement with other automakers, particularly if the innovation incorporates EVs. “It’s simply a matter of time [prior to coming of electrification Hyundai N],” informed Biermann. “We’ll do it when we think there’s a market for it or a need based upon regulation.”
