PARIS MOTOR SHOW: Hyundai RN30 packs 280kW and AWD

Hyundai has revealed an all-new concept for a Ford Focus RS-rival based on its recently revealed third-generation i30 hatchback.

Called the RN30, the new concept, revealed late last night at the Paris motor show, is claimed to have been inspired by the Korean car-maker's participation in motorsports including the WRC.

In reality though, behind-the-scenes, the concept for the most extreme i30 ever to turn away essentially previews the next car to be developed by Hyundai's fledgling N performance division.

Set to follow-on from the much-teased, still to be revealed, i30 N hot hatch that will come with at least 200kW, be front-wheel drive and go head-to-head with the Volkswagen Golf GTI, a production version of the all-wheel-drive extreme RN30 could be on sale as soon as late 2018.

Powered by the same turbocharged 2.0-litre as the i30 N and previous RM14, RM15 and RM16 Veloster concepts, the latest RN30 gets a bigger compressor that boosts power to almost 280kW/451Nm. To cope with the additional pressures of the more muscular power output, the four-cylinder petrol turbo engine gets uprated internals and forged parts.

Unlike the i30 N, however, the RN30 concept will come with an advanced all-wheel-drive system that will work with, what Hyundai claims is, an electronic limited-slip differential.

Instead of a six-speed manual, the RN30 only comes with the firm's seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (that's also set to be an option on the i30 N).

Despite running an extra pair of driven wheels and twin-clutch box, the RN30 offsets the added weight by using a new carbon-fibre-rivalling plastics that were specially developed for the concept.

It's not clear where the new lightweight material is used. The firm claims the more environmentally-friendly plastics have been used "throughout the concept" enabled Hyundai engineers to lower the uber-hatch's centre of gravity.

Featuring an aggressive, near WRC-spec bodykit and substantial aero aids, the RN30 is 30mm wider than the standard i30 (next-gen) and 84mm lower.

The huge front grille and air intake are both claimed to crucial for helping boost both downforce and cooling while the striking front-wing treatment, huge rear spoiler and central fin are also necessary to boost stability at high-speed, Hyundai says.

Topping off the extreme styling (likely to be toned down for production) are large 19-inch alloy wheels that shroud huge carbon ceramic disc brakes.

Sadly, those scissor doors are pure concept car fantasy.

Inside, the race car theme continues with a single bucket seat and an integrated roll-cage.

Hyundai has not confirmed officially that the RN30 is set for production. Instead, it says it merely "points to the future of N production models". motoring.com.au sources say, however, the firm's N performance division boss, Albert Biermann, is keen to have a powerful all-wheel drive i30 in the line-up that is "fun-to-drive on both the road and the track".

Commenting on the RN's reveal Biermann said: “RN30 embodies the concept of a strong, high-performance car that brings dynamic, sporty driving... The RN30 is inspired by our passion to provide a high-performance car that everybody can enjoy effortlessly."

Biermann added that he is keen that Hyundai draws on its technological expertise "honed through motorsport" including its considerable investment with WRC.

If approved for production the road-going RN30 is likely to usurp the Focus RS, at least against the clock.

Featuring more power than the Ford hatch (257kW/440Nm 2.3-litre turbo) and a lower kerb weight , the RN30 should reach 100km/h, from standstill, in less than 4.5 seconds and top out at around 270km/h.

It's not known if Hyundai is developing a drift-mode for the future RN30.

For a full rundown of images of the Hyundai RN30 check out motoring.com.au's gallery