The internal-combustion hot hatch is evolving — but not disappearing. Despite the discontinuation of the popular Hyundai i20 N and i30 N in the UK and Europe, Hyundai’s high-performance N division has confirmed to AutoExpress plans to develop hybrid-powered successors, signaling a continued commitment to performance models with internal combustion roots.
Hyundai N’s Performance Vision: ICE Lives On, Now with Hybrid Support
With its recent focus on electric vehicles like the award-winning IONIQ 5 N and the forthcoming IONIQ 6 N, many believed Hyundai N had fully pivoted to EVs. However, in a recent Auto Express interview, Joonwoo Park, vice president and co-founder of Hyundai N, dispelled that assumption:
“It’s not true that we’re moving to an EV performance brand,” Park said. “We have a great legacy with i20 N and i30 N – we’re not stopping there.”
Park emphasized that the brand’s affordable and engaging ICE cars remain a cornerstone of Hyundai N’s identity. He added that, with fewer competitors pursuing hybrid performance models, Hyundai may find a strategic advantage by doing so.
Early-Stage Hybrid System Development Underway
As for technical progress, Alex Eichler, a senior test driver and executive at Hyundai Motor Europe, confirmed that Hyundai N is in the early development phase of its hybrid systems:
“When we do simulations, it’s interesting to see how lap times change whenever you tweak certain parameters.”
Still, challenges remain — particularly around managing weight, a common issue with hybrid performance cars. Park pointed to the hybrid BMW M5 as an example of the trade-offs manufacturers face. Hyundai N’s goal is to address these challenges without sacrificing the driving enjoyment the brand is known for.
What’s Coming: i20 N and i30 N Hybrid Replacements
While Hyundai has not officially announced specific models, Eichler hinted at a spiritual successor to the i20 N, suggesting that performance hatchbacks remain on the brand’s radar:
“There could be a car like the i20 N coming in the future. At least, I hope so.”
Any new hybrid N models would likely ride on a completely new platform, as the current architectures supporting the Ioniq 5 N and future Ioniq 3 are EV-exclusive. Speaking of the Ioniq 3 N, it’s expected to eventually fill the performance role once occupied by the Kona N in the lineup.
Timeline: No Hybrid N Models Expected Before 2027
For enthusiasts eager to get behind the wheel, patience will be required. Hyundai confirmed that hybrid systems are still in the pre-development phase, and no production models are expected to debut before late 2027.
That said, Hyundai’s ongoing work behind the scenes signals a clear intent to blend electrification with performance, while maintaining the engaging characteristics that defined the i20 N and i30 N.
