Hyundai has hit the track in yet another menacing N Series model, and this time it’s an entirely different run-through – Meet the Hyundai H-1 iMax N ‘Drift Bus’… Who would have thought…?
Believe it or not, the inspiration of creating this one-off fast MPV came after an April Fool’s prank earlier in the year by Hyundai Germany, who posted an iMax N image that caught the attention of many, including that of the Hyundai Australia who then came up with a poll on social media asking Australian N fans which Hyundai model should get the N treatment next. The iMax received second highest after the Tucson, which the maker thought was going to be too easy to do.
The result…? A fully-fledged 8-seater drift machine that sends a vivid and clear performance message, thanks to the use of a bespoke earo body kit that includes a front splitter, side skirts, rear spoiler with brake light, rear diffuser and bumper. Hyundai i30 N sourced 19inch alloy wheels and an N Performance Blue exterior paint finish completes the athletic look.
Interior styling features include an N Steering wheel, N Sport front seats with suede inserts and leather bolsters, Power front seats with 12-way adjustment, Black headlining and rear seats (2 rows) in matching N suede and leather.
Underneath the bonnet dwells a 300kW+/555Nm 3.5litre twin-turbo V6 powertrain that drives the rear wheels via a standard 8-speed auto transmission. This setup allows the 0-100km/h sprint to be completed in less than 5 seconds. But don’t be fooled as this is no quarter mile machine, but rather a drift tycoon that also benefits from a corner craving differential, electronic controlled suspension, N performance brake package and performance tyres.
Unfortunately the Hyundai H-1 iMax N ‘Drift Bus’ will not make it into mass production due it being a once off model.