Much to our excitement, Hyundai finally launched its first N model, the i30N. The i30N wasn't the Golf R and Focus RS rival that we initially thought it would be, but it does look like an impressive rival for the GTI and Focus ST. And there could be an even hotter model in the future. Unfortunately, the US will not get to drive this awesome hatchback because it will not be sold stateside. This is extremely disappointing news, especially considering the car's recently announced starting price of just 24,995 GBP (around $33,600) in the UK.

This may sound like a lot of money, but converting pounds to dollars is not a perfect way of determining how much a car would cost in the US. For example, the Volkswagen Golf GTI costs £28,320 in the UK, which is around $38,000. We may never get an answer as to how much the i30N would cost in the US, but it would likely be less than the GTI, which starts at $24,995. The base i30N produces 247 hp, while the more powerful version (which starts at £27,995) has 271 hp. Even the base i30N comes standard with niceties like 18-inch wheels, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, and electronically controlled suspension, adaptive cruise control and LED head and tail lights.

The performance version of the car adds 19-inch wheels, Pirelli P-Zero tires, a limited-slip differential, bigger brakes, electronically adjustable leather seats and an active exhaust. The i30N is really shaping up to be a bargain. We hope that Hyundai does bring some version of this drivetrain in the Elantra or Veloster as a cheaper alternative to the current hot hatchbacks on the market.