First Impressions: 2022 Hyundai i30N DCT

South Korean automaker Hyundai has officially launched the new i30 N with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox in Mzansi. This is the first time the i30 N is receiving an automatic transmission, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

At the same event, Hyundai also launched the Kona N, which we’ll share more about in a separate article.

And now, Hyundai has made it official. The new N DCT eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is, according to Hyundai, developed to provide the engaging experience of a manual with the convenience of an automatic transmission. And unlike other dual-clutch units with dry clutches, the wet N DCT utilizes lubricating oil to improve performance and cooling in high-torque applications, it all came to live during our launch drive.

The i30 N demonstrates Hyundai’s approach to high-performance cars. By equipping i30 N with N DCT, drivers get performance and convenience at the same time.

But that’s not all. Hyundai was kind enough to spill the beans about the new N Grin Shift mode. According to Hyundai, activating N Grin Shift (NGS) maximizes the transmission response for 20 seconds while over boosting the turbocharger to produce 7-percent more torque. Apparently, this boost in power is certain to induce ‘driver grin’ as the i30 N rockets in maximum attack mode.

And there’s more. The new i30 N is also equipped with N Power Shift (NPS). It automatically engages once the driver applies 90-percent throttle input during full acceleration. The system mitigates torque reduction by using faster upshifts to send full power to the driving wheels. This allows you to make the most of the i30 N’s turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine which delivers 206 kW and 392 Nm of torque.

Additionally, the N DCT also has N Track Sense Shift (NTS), a new feature that automatically selects the optimum gear and shift-timing by analyzing road conditions. Along with other standard features like launch control, rev-matching, and overboost, the 2022 Hyundai i30 N is making the most of new technology to deliver a more exhilarating driving experience. And with the new 8-speed N DCT automatic transmission, you can drive the i30 N in heavy traffic without straining your left calf muscle.

How is the drive?

Our time with the i30 N DCT has proved to be worth ignoring the skeptics for. Yes, we know rowing your own gears may leave you feeling more engaged in each moment, but Hyundai’s DCT is whippet-fast and more than eager to keep you where the power is most plentiful. Unsurprisingly, since it’s faster than a human gear change, it also helps trim the i30 N’s 0-100 km/h time to just 5.2 seconds.

All these cool and exciting features are easily configured via a new infotainment system with a larger 10.25-inch display. The 2022 i30 N also receives Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other new stuff includes N Light Sports Bucket Seats which are thinner and lighter than standard. Also, the new seats have an illuminated N logo to further brighten up the interior.

The new i30 N comes in five exterior colours, including Performance Blue, which is exclusive to Hyundai N models. Other exterior colours are Atlas White; Engine Red; Dark Knight; and Phantom Black.

The 2022 Hyundai i30 N is already on select dealership floors as you read this. Meanwhile, the recommended price for the Hyundai i30 N DCT is R 749 900.

As part of the standard package, the customer also gets Hyundai’s 7-year / 200 000 km manufacturer warranty; a 5-year / 75 000 km service plan; and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.

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#Hyundai #Hyundai i30

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Papi Mabele

Papi Mabele has a marketing background, he is a digital marketing expert with extensive experience in launching and building global brands in the emerging markets. Papi is also an avid tech writer, enthusiast and all round tech junkie. As a freelance writer and analyst he has been numerously published in Popular Mechanics (SA), GQ South Africa, Premier Magazine, Driven Magazine, Bloem News, Courant, The Weekly, Enthooze Magazine and PiE magazine amongst others.