CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 70
Average Price: Around £20,500

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 added, offering a coupe-inspired alternative to the traditional hatchback. The car benefits from Albert Biermann's engineering expertise, previously of BMW's M Division, ensuring serious capability both on road and track.

With meaty steering, impressive grip, and agile handling, the i30 N delivers strong all-round performance without glaring weaknesses. The interior is reasonably roomy with decent rear space and a 381-litre boot (436 litres in the Fastback). Standard equipment is generous, including keyless go, reversing camera, dual-zone climate control, satnav, and Apple CarPlay. Running costs are manageable at around 30mpg in real-world driving, though the high-performance Michelin tyres are expensive to replace. Unfortunately, Hyundai discontinued the petrol i30 N in early 2024 to focus on electric performance models.

Best for: Buyers seeking affordable hot hatch performance, those wanting strong all-round capability without premium pricing, and drivers who value generous standard equipment and practicality.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising the ultimate in power (Honda Civic Type R), prestige (Volkswagen Golf GTI), or the most engaging handling (Ford Focus ST), or those unwilling to commit to expensive replacement tyres.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the i30 N if: You're seeking affordable hot hatch performance, want strong all-round capability without premium pricing, or value generous standard equipment and practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise ultimate power, prestige badge appeal, the most engaging handling, or wish to avoid expensive tyre replacement costs.

Competitive Position: The Hyundai i30 N is a well-rounded hot hatch that performs strongly across the board without glaring weaknesses. Whilst it doesn't lead in any single area—lacking the raw power of the Honda Civic Type R, the prestige of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, or the engaging handling of the Ford Focus ST—it offers exceptional value for money. The generous standard equipment, reasonable running costs, and keenly priced performance make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a capable, practical hot hatch without breaking the bank. The i30 N represents Hyundai's serious commitment to performance engineering and remains a strong contender in the hot hatch category.

Read our full Hyundai i30 N Review

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

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