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Amid increasingly stringent emissions regulations and higher taxes on cars with large-displacement engines, the future doesn't look good for combustion-powered performance vehicles. Hyundai just killed the i20 N and i30 N in Europe where automakers face the toughest legislation anywhere. However, not all hope is lost for a fun car with an internal combustion engine.
SALINAS, Calif. – For people who love to drive – beyond a straight-and-narrow stoplight blast – EVs present a conundrum. They’re swift, seamless and squeaky-clean. But they tend to be isolating, shy on character and driver engagement. Early exceptions to the rule, your Porsche Taycans or Lucid Airs, are beyond the reach of many buyers.
The first big breakthrough for making fast EVs genuinely satisfying to drive was the release of the Porsche Taycan. The second breakthrough is the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
Hyundai’s N performance-car sub-brand has so far developed sporty petrol-powered models – and an electric offering with the Ioniq 5 N – but a hotter hybrid model could also be on the way to ease the transition into a battery-powered future.
Hyundai N's technical advisor has confirmed that the automaker's N division intends to produce more affordable electric performance vehicles.
One of Hyundai’s next high-performance N cars may be a small electric model with learnings and technology derived from the $111,000 Ioniq 5 N.
The Hyundai i30 N and i20 N hot hatches have been axed in Europe – their largest markets – but will live on in Australia for the immediate future, a company spokesperson confirmed to Drive.
Genesis has announced that it will be collaborating with former Formula 1 driver and Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx, who joins the brand as an official partner, acting as both ambassador and advisor. Ickx will be working closely with the brand's head designer, Luc Donckerwolke, indicating that his input will be tangible in the automaker's future cars.