Models · Hyundai
Hyundai i30 N buying guide
Hyundai's first N hot hatch, sold from 2017 to 2024 as a hatchback and, from 2019, a Fastback, with a 2.0 turbo in standard and Performance outputs. An eight-speed dual-clutch arrived in 2021. It's holding up well, with few serious issues reported, and its known points are few.
The versions
- 2.0 turbo four-cylinder: 250bhp standard, 275bhp Performance
- Six-speed manual; eight-speed N-DCT dual-clutch automatic from 2021
- Performance pack: limited-slip differential, 19in wheels, active variable exhaust, larger brakes and a removable rear strut brace
- Hatchback, and Fastback from 2019 (every UK Fastback came with the Performance pack)
What to check on a i30 N
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Fifth and sixth gear selection
What to look for: On a manual, make sure the drive is long enough to change up into fifth and sixth several times, and back down. Note any baulking, resistance or crunching going into either gear.
Why it matters: Difficulty selecting fifth and sixth is a known fault on the manual gearbox. Replacing the synchroniser rings is the known fix, so ask whether it has been done under warranty.
Warning lights and power loss
What to look for: Watch the dashboard as the engine starts and on the drive for an engine warning light, and note any hesitation or uneven power delivery. Check the battery terminals are tight. Ask a Hyundai dealer to confirm any recall work against the VIN on a 2018 model year car.
Why it matters: Engine warning lights have usually been traced to a faulty fuel pump or loose battery terminals. 2018 model year cars had an ECU recall for start-up and power delivery issues, and some cases came down to the battery terminals, so the recall check should have been done by a dealer.
Is it a Performance model
What to look for: If the car is sold as a Performance, look behind the rear seats for the removable strut brace, check it has 19in wheels with larger brake discs behind them, and look on the tyre sidewalls for Pirelli P Zeros with the HN marking. Check the V5C and paperwork match.
Why it matters: The Performance model adds 25bhp, a limited-slip differential, 19in wheels, an active variable exhaust, larger brakes and the rear strut brace, and sits about 10mm lower. Every UK Fastback came with it, but on hatchbacks it's the version to confirm, as the standard car looks similar.
Also in the full guide
- Rattles from the roof and dash
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the i30 N
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Hyundai.