Hyundai i30 hot hatch possible
* Would be based on 3dr model
* Likely in 2013
A hot hatch version of the new Hyundai i30 is being considered, Hyundai Europe boss Allan Rushforth has revealed to What Car?
The new i30 goes on sale in January, but a hotter version would be based on the three-door model, which isn't due until the end of 2012.
The i30 three-door is likely to have sportier styling than the five-door hatch, much like the Vauxhall Astra GTC and Renault Megane Coupe.
Any hot i30 would be engineered and developed in Europe, Rushforth revealed. It would be powered by a '1.6 or 2.0-litre turbocharged engine'.
Kia's sister car, the new C'eed due to be launched at the Geneva motor show in March will also have a hot hatch version. Kia company insiders have already admitted that it will be powered by a 1.6-litre turbo, producing around 200bhp.
The i30 hot hatch is likely to use the same engine Hyundai has confirmed the Veloster coupe will get a 201bhp turbocharged 1.6-litre engine in the second half of 2012.
