Hyundai i30 N DCT (2022) Review

The 2022 Hyundai i30 N DCT doesn’t just redefine what it means to drive a Hyundai—it redefines the hot hatch category entirely. While Hyundai’s name might once have been synonymous with dependable, practical cars, the i30 N DCT is a dynamic powerhouse that proves Hyundai can deliver genuine performance thrills.

It’s a thrill machine with practicality baked in—giving you the flexibility to use it as a family car by day and a track-ready toy by night.

Power, Performance, and Fun Factor

Under the hood, the i30 N DCT packs a robust 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that cranks out an impressive 280 PS. This setup rockets the car from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.9 seconds, making it one of the swiftest in its class. And it’s not just about numbers—this hot hatch comes with an engaging, rally-inspired personality. Each shift from the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission feels sharp and responsive, and with features like Hyundai’s N Grin Shift (NGS), which gives you an extra boost of power for a thrilling 20-second burst, the i30 N is primed to deliver excitement.

But don’t mistake this car for a brute with no brains. The i30 N DCT offers a range of driving modes that can change the car’s behavior dramatically. In Eco mode, it’s a relatively tame and comfortable daily driver; switch it to Sport or the track-inspired N mode, and it transforms into a full-throttle beast. The suspension firms up noticeably, the exhaust growls louder, and the steering becomes incredibly precise. Whether you’re weaving through city traffic or hitting a winding backroad, the i30 N handles with agility and poise that genuinely put a smile on your face.

Design and Interior Comfort

The styling of the i30 N DCT strikes a nice balance—it’s aggressive enough to hint at the performance under the hood, but it isn’t so flamboyant that it becomes gaudy. This makes it a perfect match for drivers who want something that looks cool without screaming “boy racer.” With its half-leather seats and a well-laid-out cabin, the interior might not be overly flashy, but it’s functional and driver-focused. Every button, knob, and control is right where you need it. The comfortable seats provide ample support, even on spirited drives, and the steering wheel, equipped with mode-switch buttons, feels intuitive and sporty.

Rear legroom and headroom are generous enough to comfortably fit two adults, although squeezing three in the back might be tight for a long journey. And with a 381-litre boot that has additional underfloor storage, there’s plenty of room for weekend bags or daily groceries, making it a practical option for those who don’t want to sacrifice utility for fun.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

Hyundai has engineered the i30 N DCT with remarkable precision. Despite being front-wheel drive, the car manages its power distribution exceptionally well, gripping the road tightly in corners and rarely losing traction. The track-tuned chassis and suspension mean it’s more than ready for the rigors of high-speed cornering, and that firm suspension gives it a racecar feel. While it might feel stiff on a bumpy city street, on the track or smooth backroads, it’s pure joy.

The versatility of the driving modes is another highlight. In N mode, the i30 N DCT unleashes a crackling, throaty exhaust note that’s impossible to ignore, turning heads wherever it goes. If you prefer the sporty feel without the noise or stiffened suspension, you can adjust everything through the customizable settings, making the car truly adaptable to your preferences.

Fuel Economy and Everyday Practicality

For those considering the i30 N DCT as a daily driver, it’s possible to achieve decent fuel efficiency in Eco mode, where you might see mileage in the mid-30s (MPG) on a highway cruise. However, if you’re letting the car flex its muscles, you can expect the MPG to drop closer to 20. But fuel economy isn’t really what this car is about—this is a car that makes you want to drive just for the fun of it.

As a daily vehicle, the i30 N DCT manages to be fairly comfortable and practical, with ample storage space, decent passenger comfort, and enough tech features to make every drive enjoyable. With its understated yet sporty styling, it also suits those who want something exciting but still refined enough for a professional setting.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

In a hot hatch market filled with heavyweights like the Ford Focus ST and Honda Civic Type R, the 2022 Hyundai i30 N DCT holds its own. It’s a thrill machine with practicality baked in—giving you the flexibility to use it as a family car by day and a track-ready toy by night. The i30 N has serious performance, but it also has a cheeky side, with pops, bangs, and a grin-inducing soundtrack that makes it impossible not to love. For those looking to combine everyday practicality with genuine fun, Hyundai has hit the mark perfectly with the i30 N DCT.

To find out the latest lease prices for a Hyundai i30, Click here.