Hyundai N performance brand to expand into SUVs and electrics, but no G70 N for now

Hyundai has plans to expand its ‘N’ performance line-up by at least two new models with a focus on SUVs and electrification according to Albert Beirman, the Korean carmaker's executive in charge of the N brand.

Speaking to US industry publication, Automotive News at an international Veloster N event, he said his team could, “come up with a car in a pretty short time” but it largely depended on the reception to the cars on which they are based.

Budget for a fourth model to be added to the current line-up of N cars has reportedly been allocated, touted to be the new performance marque’s first SUV.

A fifth model is also possible, with Beirmann even mentioning that an N version of the Prius-challenging Ioniq, “is not fully crazy” but not to expect N treatment of Genesis cars for the time being due to the brand’s luxury positioning.

Currently the N line-up consists of the i30 N, i30 Fastback N (set to launch in Australia in 2019) and the Veloster N (scheduled to launch in Q4 internationally, but ruled out for Australia).

Hyundai’s local arm was unable to expand on Beirmann’s comments, but public relations general manager, Bill Thomas, told CarsGuide local uptake of the i30N had been good, with the hot-hatch currently attracting a waiting list up to six months long.

Mr Thomas added the brand’s Australian operation would still be open to the idea of the Veloster N and a performance SUV offering such as a Kona N in the future.

Supply seems to me more of an issue for Hyundai than demand, as the N spiced Veloster and i30 have generated lengthy waiting lists the world over.

What Hyundai model would you most like to see with the N treatment? Tell us what you think in the comments below.