Hyundai i30 N Performance gets 320hp

Racechip cracks the code of the i30's ECU, gives it Type R matching power...

Back when the Hyundai i30 N was launched, a range of performance parts was also released - tyres, wheels, seats, brakes, anti-roll bars - which hinted at a more track focused product. Sadly they're currently only for Europe, but there are now other aftermarket alternatives for buyers after more edge from their i30.

RaceChip has worked its magic on the 275hp i30 N Performance, its ECU tune promising "more power for maximum performance and unbeatable driving pleasure." The vital numbers are 313hp and 367lb ft, significant gains from 275hp and 260lb ft. While RaceChip doesn't provide any performance times, that sort of boost is likely to markedly improve mid-range potency while also dropping the 0-62mph sprint by a tenth or two. That huge peak torque figure, for what it's worth, is just 2lb ft behind an Audi S4 and 20lb ft more than even an overboosted Focus RS.

Elsewhere the RaceChip mods are as you would expect, and emulate the official Hyundai upgrades. So there are lighter OZ Leggera HLT wheels, Eibach springs and ARBs, Michelin Pilot Spot 4S tyres plus, should you wish, an HJS downpipe that brings power up to 320hp (as well as 386lb ft) and "a rich and aggressive sound". In fact, RaceChip is so proud of the noise that they've made a video celebrating it...

Given the Hyundai is a great car (but not a flawless one), this sort of tinkering sounds like just the ticket to bring the N to life. That said, RaceChip is a German company, so sourcing the parts might be a little tricky. There's really only one thing for it, then - get those performance parts here Hyundai!