Hyundai Veloster N debuts new dual-clutch gearbox

The Hyundai Veloster N is the first model to be fitted with the brand's highly-anticipated new eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Dubbed 'N DCT', the new quick-shifting auto will make its way to Australia in early 2021 in the facelifted Hyundai i30 N and i30 Fastback N models, because the Veloster N is not built in right-hand drive for markets like Australia, Japan and the UK.

"We're excited by the added performance and everyday sports car drivability the N DCT will bring to the i30 N hatch and Fastbackwhen it launches here early next year," Hyundai Australia’s senior manager of PR, Guido Schenken, told carsales.com.au today.

The new eight-speed N DCT is a wet dual-clutch transmission designed for repeated punishment in high-performance applications, using electronic actuators to control the twin clutches automatically to effect fast and efficient shifts, says Hyundai.

"Unlike a dry double-clutch transmission, the wet N DCT uses oil to significantly improve lubrication and cooling performance, which is typical of higher torque applications," reads the Hyundai press statement.

As well as shaving almost half a second off the Veloster N’s claimed 0-100km/h acceleration, from 6.0 to 5.6sec (expect a similar improvement for the i30 N hot hatch), the new eight-speed N DCT gearbox should improve fuel efficiency.

It also gains several 'video game-like features', says Hyundai, including:

N Grin Shift (NGS): Increases torque by seven per cent (353Nm to 378Nm) via overboost and maximises transmission response for 20 seconds to induce "driver grin".

N Power Shift (NPS): When 90 per cent or more throttle is requested torque reduction is avoided during up shifts to "deliver maximum power to the wheels".

N Track Sense Shift (NTS): Automatically detects when conditions are ideal for 'dynamic driving' to deliver shift timing akin to "a professional race car driver to provide optimal performance".

As predicted, other features include a launch control system and rev-matching.

Given the front-drive layout of the Veloster N and the i30 N models with which it shares its platform architecture, a drift mode like those available in the new Mercedes-AMG A 45 and Ford Focus RS is not offered.

Overseas, the Veloster N is now offered with N light sports bucket seats which are 2kg lighter than the regular seat. These may be offered on the upgraded i30 N models coming to Australia in early 2021.

Thomas Schemera, Hyundai's head of high performance vehicles and former BMW M division alumni, said "Anyone who wants a fun driving experience will jump at the chance to pilot the new Veloster N – an everyday sports car with racetrack capabilities.

"Veloster N demonstrates Hyundai’s approach to high-performance cars. By equipping Veloster N with N DCT, drivers get performance and convenience at the same time," he said.

Testing of Hyundai's go-fast N vehicles – and the N DCT – was carried out at its global R&D centre in Namyang, Korea, with validation undertaken at its performance centre at the Nürburgring in Germany.

The Hyundai Veloster N will debut the N DCT when it goes on sale in South Korea and other left-hand drive markets from this month.