Hyundai is aggressively expanding its N performance lineup, aiming to exceed 100,000 global sales by 2030, with potential for 200,000 units in the long term. This expansion isn’t about slapping the N badge on everything; it’s about strategic choices to maximize impact.
Strategic Growth, Not Just Numbers
Hyundai’s leadership has confirmed that more N models are coming within the next three to four years. Senior Vice President of Product Planning and Mobility Strategy, Olabisi Boyle, emphasized that N versions will only be applied to vehicles where they “make sense.” This suggests a focus on models that truly benefit from the performance upgrade, rather than simply broadening the lineup for the sake of it.
Tucson N: A Logical Next Step?
The company’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S., the Tucson (with 234,230 units sold in 2023 – a 14% increase ), is a strong candidate for an N variant. While a previous Tucson Hybrid N-Line was discontinued for 2026, rumors suggest Hyundai is reconsidering a full-performance version. The Tucson’s popularity makes it a natural fit for the N treatment, offering significant market potential.
Ioniq 6 N: A First Taste of the Future
The all-electric Ioniq 6 N will arrive in the U.S. in limited quantities in 2026. This high-performance EV boasts up to 641 hp when boost is engaged, signaling Hyundai’s commitment to electrifying its N division. The Ioniq 6 N’s U.S. debut in Los Angeles last year highlighted the brand’s ambitions in the electric performance sector.
Global Strategy: Europe and Small EVs
Outside North America, Hyundai plans to revive the i30 N for European markets. Furthermore, the company is likely to introduce N variants for its upcoming small electric vehicles, indicating a broader strategy to integrate performance into its EV portfolio.
Hyundai’s approach isn’t about chasing volume at all costs; it’s about carefully selecting models that align with the N brand’s identity. This focused strategy aims to maximize impact and ensure that each N vehicle delivers a genuine performance experience.
