Here’s our first proper look on the upcoming 2017 Hyundai i30 N hot hatch, courtesy of our keen-eyed spy photographers.

It’s no secret that Hyundai wants to offer a genuine rival to the likes of the Golf GTI and the new generation i30 will be exactly that car.

This time we caught a prototype wearing less camo, revealing more details of the new-generation bodywork which Hyundai teased a little while ago.

The range-topping i30 will be distinguished from its lesser brothers thanks to its more aggressive bodykit, its dual exhaust-pipe setup and a bigger set of wheels.

The 2017 Hyundai i30 N will be the first model to bear the N designation, with the company planning to launch more spicy derivatives of its other models too. The Korean hot hatch will come in two flavors, including a base model and one fitted with a performance pack.

Both of them will be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit mated to a manual gearbox. The power output is expected to be around the 260hp mark. The chassis enhancements will include an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential, stiffer engine and transmission mounts, a sportier setup for the steering and the obligatory modified suspension which will come with new front axle knuckles to enhance the front-end’s grip and directness.

A dual-clutch version is also expected to arrive a few months after the car’s market launch. The company has also worked hard on the soundtrack of their first proper hot hatch, with our spies repeating that the car you see in the photos sounded a lot fruitier than the current opposition.

Hyundai is expected to launch the new i30 N in early 2017, but our first official look will take place at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

PHOTO GALLERY