Hyundai's highly anticipated i30 N could be set to shake up the hot hatch market in more ways than one, if pricing strategies from across the ditch are repeated in New Zealand.
We've known about the i30 N for sometime now. We've driven prototypes in its homeland of Korea and know that two models will be made for the European market.
Yet one of the biggest questions left unanswered is where Hyundai NZ will position the i30 N - the first production car from Hyundai's N performance sub-brand - in relation to established front-wheel drive nameplates like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST and Honda Civic Type R.
As yet, this information is not available for the New Zealand market. But Hyundai Australia has just released details about their i30 N range and pricing and it could be great news for potential hot hatch buyers, with Hyundai Australia offering the new hatch at a much lower price point than its competitors, in some cases over AU$10,000 less.
In Australia only one i30 N model will be available - the most powerful 202Kw 'Performance' - priced from AU$39,990. This model is equivalent to the top-spec 'Performance Package' offered in other markets around the globe.
With that pricing strategy the i30 N is set to undercut the recommended retail price of the Honda Civic Type R (AU$50,990) and, what Hyundai see's the i30 N's biggest competitor, the Volkswagen Golf GTI (AU$51,490) in Australia.
In New Zealand the Type R is priced from $59,990 and the Golf GTI from $56,990.
Only two options will be offered to Australian buyers. A 'Luxury Pack' will add front park assist, rain sensing wipers, driver's memory seats and wireless charging pad. And a 'Luxury Pack with Panaramic Sunroof' will add more interior light and weight if desired. The two options add AU$3000 or AU$5000 respectively to the sticker price.
Hyundai Australia CEO JW lee says the i30 N is 'a true enthusiast’s car' and its pricing will make buyers take notice.
"The i30 N will win fans for the way it looks, drives and sounds,” said Lee. “It is a car that makes a strong case against all its rivals in sheer performance terms and its $39,990 makes that case even more compelling,” Lee added.
Should the i30 N land in New Zealand with a similar positioning strategy, it could be less expensive than the company's top-spec Ioniq hatch or Tucson SUV.
New Zealand's i30 N range and pricing is expected to be confirmed in April.
