Hyundai i30 SR to take on Golf GTi?

Though not admitting it outright, local Hyundai execs have hinted at a "GTi'' version of the i30 hatch. Called the i30 SR it could use a turbo engine and six-speed transmissions from the new Veloster SR.

That means a 1.6-litre, direct injection, petrol four cylinder with a twin-scroll turbo generating around 150kW/265Nm output - close to the current Golf GTi. There is scope to up these outputs if required to more than match the Golf or alternatively, fit a 2.0-litre turbo. That would be something else again.

An i30 SR would feature torque vectoring on the front drive wheels to counter the effects of torque steering and along with a short shifting six-speed manual, there would be a six-speed 'fluid' auto- not a dual clutch system. Interior fittings would be at the highest level currently available in i30. It would have a lower ride height, wilder wheels, twin exhaust outlet, body aero kit and sporty interior flavour.

As is the case with the Veloster SR, the i30SR would have localised sporty dynamics and underpinnings reflecting the sporty nature of the car - bigger brakes, higher quality dampers, more responsive steering, larger wheels and tyres.

The car is under consideration by Hyundai which is on a quest to jump up the ladder in terms of world car sales. The i30 SR would be one of a number of vehicles Hyundai would be looking at including a one tonne ute and other sporty models as well as luxury cars.

Obviously there are no price details on an i30 SR… suffice to say: less than a Golf GTi.