Hyundai Has Officially Axed the i30 N and i20 N Hot Hatches

Hyundai’s popular i30 N and i20 N hot hatches have officially been discontinued for the European market, including the UK. While the decision was announced in early 2024, its impact is still being felt by driving enthusiasts today — and it raises a bigger question about the future of the hot hatch segment as a whole.

The move comes as a result of increasingly strict emissions regulations across Europe, combined with Hyundai’s long-term strategy to transition towards a zero local emissions vehicle line-up.

In an official statement to automotive publication CarThrottle, Hyundai confirmed:

“Production of the ICE N models has ceased for the European market starting from February, in line with our commitment to offering a zero-tailpipe-emission line-up to our customers by 2035 and to operating 100% carbon neutrally by 2045.”

Hyundai also made it clear that the performance-focused N brand is not disappearing, but evolving. Future N models in Europe will focus on high-performance electric vehicles, with the brand positioning itself as a pioneer of performance EV technology.

Why the Hyundai i30 N and i20 N mattered

The Hyundai i30 N was the brand’s first serious entry into the hot hatch market — and it exceeded expectations. Developed under the guidance of former BMW M boss Albert Biermann, the i30 N delivered sharp handling, strong performance and genuine driver engagement, quickly earning comparisons with established rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

The facelifted i30 N, introduced in 2021, brought further improvements including a dual-clutch automatic gearbox and engine updates, producing up to 276bhp and 289 lb-ft of torque.

The i20 N followed a similar philosophy in a smaller package. Lightweight, compact and highly engaging to drive, it became a genuine rival to icons such as the Ford Fiesta ST. With around 200bhp and an exceptionally responsive chassis, it quickly gained a loyal following among enthusiasts.

Why are hot hatches being discontinued?

The decision to axe the i30 N and i20 N reflects wider changes across the automotive industry rather than a lack of demand.

Stricter emissions regulations
Meeting increasingly tough CO₂ targets has become a major challenge for manufacturers. High-performance petrol engines, which define traditional hot hatches, make compliance difficult without significant investment.

Shift towards electrification
Manufacturers are prioritising electric and hybrid vehicles to meet government targets and future-proof their model ranges. Investment is being redirected away from internal combustion performance cars towards EV platforms.

Changing market demand
SUVs and crossovers continue to dominate sales charts, offering practicality, higher driving positions and broader appeal. This shift has reduced the commercial viability of niche performance hatchbacks.

Is the hot hatch segment dying out?

The hot hatch market is undoubtedly shrinking, but it is not completely gone — yet.

Recent years have already seen the discontinuation of models such as the Ford Fiesta ST, and many expect current ICE hot hatches to be among the last of their kind. Models like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Polo GTI remain available for now, while alternatives such as the CUPRA Leon, BMW 128ti and Toyota GR Yaris continue to cater to enthusiasts — although often at higher price points.

What is clear is that availability is reducing, prices are rising, and choice is becoming increasingly limited.

What does this mean for drivers?

For drivers who still want a traditional petrol-powered hot hatch, the message is simple: options are becoming fewer, and waiting may mean missing out.

As manufacturers shift towards electrification, remaining ICE performance models are likely to become harder to secure — particularly on competitive lease terms.

Final thoughts

The discontinuation of the Hyundai i30 N and i20 N marks the end of an important chapter for affordable, driver-focused performance cars. Hyundai proved that it could build engaging, high-quality hot hatches that stood shoulder-to-shoulder with established European rivals.

While the future of performance clearly points towards electrification, the era of the traditional hot hatch is entering its final phase. For enthusiasts, now may be the last opportunity to enjoy these cars in their purest form.

With performance hot hatches becoming increasingly rare, leasing can be a smart way to secure one of the remaining petrol-powered models while managing costs through fixed monthly payments.

Choose your contract length, mileage and optional maintenance package to suit your needs — whether personal or business.