CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 39.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 60
Average Price: Around £21,000

Hyundai i30 N (2018-2024) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Very rapid, both in a straight line and around bends	Not the best hot hatch in any one area
Keenly priced for a performance hatch	High-performance Michelin tyres will be expensive to replace
Lots of standard kit	Can't quite match the super-talented Honda Civic Type-R

Quick Summary

The Hyundai i30 N (2018-2024) is Hyundai's first proper hot hatch, engineered to deliver genuine performance whilst remaining affordable compared to established rivals. The original 2018 model produced 271bhp, with a 2021 facelift introducing a sharper design, cabin refinements, and increased power to 276bhp. A sleek Fastback bodystyle was also introduced, offering a coupe-inspired alternative to the traditional hatchback. The i30N combines meaty steering, limpet-like grip, and impressive agility with everyday practicality, making it a well-rounded performance car. A dual-clutch transmission option joined the standard six-speed manual, though purists favour the latter.

With a roomy interior accommodating two six-foot adults comfortably and boots offering 381 litres (hatchback) or 436 litres (Fastback), the i30N proves hot hatches needn't sacrifice family duty. Standard equipment is generous, including keyless go, reversing camera, dual-zone climate control, satnav, and smartphone integration. Running costs are reasonable for a performance car, with real-world fuel economy around 30mpg and insurance group 28. However, the high-performance Michelin tyres are expensive to replace, and the firm ride at low speeds can feel draining on broken urban roads. Hyundai discontinued the petrol i30N in early 2024 to focus on electric performance models.

Best for: Buyers seeking affordable hot hatch performance without compromising everyday practicality, and those wanting strong all-round capability rather than outright specialisation.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising the most powerful option (Honda Civic Type R), the most prestigious badge (Volkswagen Golf GTI), or the most engaging handling (Ford Focus ST).


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the i30 N if: You're seeking affordable hot hatch performance without compromising everyday practicality, and want strong all-round capability rather than outright specialisation in any single area.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the most powerful option, the most prestigious badge, or the most engaging handling characteristics.

Competitive Position: The Hyundai i30 N is a well-engineered, all-round performer that doesn't lead in any single area but performs very strongly across the board. Whilst the Honda Civic Type R is more powerful, the Volkswagen Golf GTI more prestigious, and the Ford Focus ST more engaging to drive hard, the i30N has no glaring weaknesses. It offers exceptional value for money, generous standard equipment, and genuine practicality alongside impressive performance. For buyers seeking a front-wheel-drive hot hatch with around 300bhp that won't break the bank, the Hyundai is a compelling choice that deserves serious consideration.

Read our full Hyundai i30 N Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.