Ford Focus ST vs Hyundai i30 N 2020 comparison review

Which hot hatch is best? Is the new Ford Focus ST the king of the fast five doors? To find out, we match the ST up against a fan favourite, the Hyundai i30 N. One of our favourite hot hatches, the i30 N has been upgraded for 2020, with a more compliant suspension and better handling. Will it be a match for the torquey 2.3-litre Focus? Let's see! In this video, a comparison of the 2020 i30 N and 2020 Focus ST manual, Tom looks into the practicality, dynamics and value for money of each vehicle.
Watch some of our other car comparisons:
CX-30 vs X1 vs Q3:
A35 vs M135i vs S3:
Which hot hatch do you prefer? Do you love the noise of the Hyundai or the agility of the Ford? Are you waiting for the next Golf GTI? Are you disappointed they're not making another Focus RS? Would you take a Megane RS?
Let me know all of your thoughts in the comments.
Do us a favour and SUBSCRIBE and hit the notification bell! kzbin.info
Covers the exterior, interior, engine and handling of the Ford Focus 2020 / Hyundai i30 2020.
READ our detailed Australian coverage of the 2020 Ford range here: chasingcars.com.au

[@chasingcars]

Thanks for watching! Correction: in the video, when referring to the optional automatic for the Focus ST, I called it a dual clutch. It is, understandably for Ford in 2020, a torque converter unit.

[@rudyardharrison4177]

I'm pleased to hear that !

[@christopherkcrowley7024]

Confirm 7spd TC+planets , have one on order. Have had 6 years with 2014 ST (manual of course) and love the Ford 6 speed, but extensive research and test drive at age 60 turns me to 7 spd auto. Has ‘super-cruise’ tallness in 7th with TC locked, giving highway and freeway cruise RPM below 2000 rpm and better fuel consumption. Manual cruises at 2300 rpm in 6th which wastes fuel for a motor that is characterised by its low to mid rpm torque. Manual mode in auto with paddles brings a little bit of age 30 hoon spirit back, but not all of the manual rawness. That’s OK for me, and besides, there’s still lots of mode and other selection workload to keep me busy and satisfied.

[@stockey]

I will take a I30 N with the 8 speed DCT, Ford doesn't offer that.

[@mememachine5244]

@@rudyardharrison4177 Why would you be pleased to hear that? DCT are just better for performance cars when done right, such as in the A35/45 or M135i

[@MattCoughran]

Great Review! I have had my Focus ST for just under a month after coming from a Golf R which was full of endless problems. Within the first few days of owning the focus I instantly realised that it was designed as a proper hot hatch. The steering is precise and every time I drive it, I leave with a smile on my face. The only thing I will say. Although the is a lack of individual modes on the focus I kind of like it that way. A mode I never used on the Golf because it’s either you drive it as a hot hatch or miss daisy. There shouldn’t be any “in between”. But either way The Hyundai or Focus are the smarter choice over the ageing GTI.

[@chasingcars]

Glad you’re enjoying the Focus!

[@ethneywaters8976]

💙💙💙FORD RULES 💙💙💙

[@kjenk19]

i own a 2020 i30 N hatch and have never had so much fun driving a car. Constant smiles every time i drive it. Looking at the base model in the video I am glad i spent the extra on the luxury pack.

[@dheeradjlachman9658]

You make the the right choice mate i gonna choose for this hot hatch too!Hyundai rulez

[@kjenk19]

Dheeradj Lachman you won’t regret it mate

[@crocoman776]

Great review. I’ve had the I30N performance since March 2018 and have never had as much fun in a car. The key with all of these comparisons is that the consumer test drives the cars themselves as they are so subjective. Good job.

[@chasingcars]

Agreed that test driving is absolutely critical. Either way, anybody should be chuffed with either of these cars.

[@Ghost44681]

Iv been told the I30 N has been discontinued now in the UK 🇬🇧

[@sw2092]

Just the comparison that I was waiting for, and the one that I will now judge other channels by. So thorough and so very well done, Tom. You've taken this channel from strength to strength.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, SW. The kind words mean a lot!

[@tonycoz2309]

In the great traditions of Peter Wherrett and the "Torque" program this has become my internet car review site of choice. Top review.

[@sw2092]

Spot on, Tony. Just like the late, great Peter Wherrett, honest, well judged opinions with no gimmicks, no hysterics - just the stuff that those of us who love cars want and need to know.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, one and all. Having watched some of Peter's presentations that the ABC have now put on KZbin, it's clear that he was a real pioneer of this style.

[@markcowell3510]

I am a big Ford fan and owned many over the years. However the I30N Performance just ticks every box and it's a little bit different!. The ST is a great car but I just don't like the rear styling on the new Focus. For me it's the I30N all day long.

[@ZickftZack]

It is a close match. I tested both of them and the focus st won very closely. Many people want more stylish rear lights, because they aren´t LED. This is the only thing I would change on this car and the fact he mentioned in the video with the "custom drive mode".

[@azadr9231]

Awesome review Tom. I had been waiting for you to review the focus ST. Focus ST automatic will be my next car.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Azad - we'll drive the ST auto soon.

[@azadr9231]

@@chasingcars Thanks Tom. Looking forward to it.

[@azadr9231]

@@chasingcars When you review the auto, can you please examine the exhaust sound carefully? Apparently it doesn't pop and bang like the manual. Does it sound annoying?

[@MrrNacho]

I was looking to buy either the civic type R or a subi sti, and while watching different comparison and review videos i came across the hyundai i30N which i knew absolutely nothing about in fact i didnt even know it existed. So after watching loads of different types of videos about it i decided to take 1 for a test drive,. Best decision ive made in a long time! I ended up buying a brand new 2020 i30N fastback performance. Here in New Zealand the price difference is not that much between the 3. 2019 type R (no new 2020 models yet due to covid) with around 5k to 10k kms sells for about 55 to $60000. 2020 sti new goes for about $65000 2020 i30N fastback performance new i paid $58000 and i dont regret it 1 bit. The amount of technology the i30n comes with from factory is absolutely brilliant where most similar cars for that price dont or u have to pay extra, it looks really nice not too aggressive but not boring either and the sound! Omg! Just incredible!, to me best daily driver of the 3 and if u wanna have fun on the B roads or even take it to the track its plenty capable n will put a massive smile om your face.. The type R is the other way around, fastest of the 3 and an absolute animal on the B roads and the track but, it lacks technology and luxury (not that you buy a type R for that anyways) and the sound is well.. non existent which is a shame for such an aggressive looking car. And the sti is kinda like in between the 2. Anyways thats my humble opinion 😅

[@jobupatel9545]

Hey mate, I am buying a 2019 i30N next week from a Hyundai dealer in Manukau, Auckland !! Its not brand new but i am super excited regardless ! Can you tell me a bit more about how its been driving on NZ roads and also if you've faced any problems with it so far ? I am super nervous about the purchase as it'll be the biggest debt of my life !! Cheers mate

[@MrrNacho]

@@jobupatel9545 hi mate well 1st congrats! And 2nd, unfortunately my "hyundai experience" wasnt great. My brand new i30n came with the "steering knock problem" which is very common apparently, but it was a pain to get "fixed" due to the completely unprofessional customer service from the dealer. Other than that the car was great. I do wanna warn you about the hyundai manukau dealer (right opposite the mall), if thats the 1 you are getting your car from be careful man, thats where i got mine from and the whole experience was absolutely shit! I will.never ever buy any hyundai or car from them.. Msge me on messenger if u want to know all about it, search me up as nacho gonzalez got a type R photo on profile, and ill tell you more, but if not then watch out with those guys theyll take your money and from there it'll just be a nightmare. ( at least thats what happened with me) which in the end made me sell my i30N.

[@jobupatel9545]

@@MrrNacho damn, it is the same dealership you are talking about and i even paid the deposit 2 days ago so I will just have to bu it and see how it goes ffs ! But thank you very much for replying and sharing your experience and i am sorry you had to go through that, thats the worst thing ever ! I have also messaged you on Messenger, if you have any tips please share. Thanks,

[@AllFunAndJames]

@@jobupatel9545 Hows the car going man? You enjoying it? Hope you haven't had any issues, and be safe in the knowledge that these cars are loved world wide - don't regret your purchase! Enjoy it.

[@jobupatel9545]

@@AllFunAndJames I absolutely love it mate, it’s totally worth it and then some. Sadly lockdown started within 2 days of me getting it but have driven around town a lot and I’m in love man 😁 0 regrets Thanks ☺️

[@martinjudd1284]

Just about to place my order for the upcoming Focus ST3. A couple of nice additions and of course I am doing all of my research now. Great review.

[@michaelgoh5830]

Though not in the market for a hot hatch, enjoyed watching your very balanced and unbiased review of these 2 amazing cars.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Michael. Appreciate it.

[@cy9nvs]

For the 2021 model year Ford added a digital gage cluster. Just overall as a daily driver I think the focus is the better car. In terms of speed and driving dynamics they're extremely close as most cars in the segment, and the ford just is a bit nicer in the interior.

[@albertkang1052]

The i30N manual is somewhat old now. The facelifted version with DCT is due soon. So look forward to another comparision video mate! The brother Veloster N with DCT (just newly launched) is not only 0.5 secs in launch control mode but also faster in corners thanks to a new gimmick (e.g. NGS shifter mode) which I believe should be an interesting catch for consumers looking for a semi-auto hot hatch. Great video and keep up the great work!

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Albert. Looking forward to trying the i30 N with the DCT.

[@babisotonggg]

agreed, the new veloster N DCT will totally renew the storm that I30N make last 2 years..

[@Clarky_AU]

FYI the i30n with the lux pack does give the passenger and driver 12 point electronic adjustment on the seats, not just the driver as you said in your review.

[@chasingcars]

Good to know, thanks for the correction.

[@themarenda]

I think adaptive suspension settings should be separate to engine modes in every car, not all roads are the same

[@malcolmscott4150]

Love both of these and would like to see a RS280 take on both as they are true hot hatches - have also read good things about the Golf GTI TCR yet it’s outdated already with mk8 coming soon to Europe at least however the Focus wins here for me and looks great in the spec tested - great review Tom :)

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Malcolm! Still keen to get the Megane into one of these comparos - wish Renault would make that easier for us.

[@gareerabaza6904]

Nice video as always. I have a question though, do you think focus ST or fiesta ST money aside? Thanks

[@Lilysvideos17]

Thanks for video I've now just purchased the orange focus because of this vid.

[@rudyardharrison4177]

Thanks for a great comparison test, keep up the good work!

[@chasingcars]

Thanks! Will do.

[@felixgustavoduarte2070]

Great video, very objective, precise and unbiased. You commented the I30N disadvantage in weight against the GTI, what about the ST?

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Felix. Two points on that. (1) I'd like to weigh these cars ourselves at some point, because the numbers really differ about the Focus. In terms of what both manufacturers have submitted in Australia, the Focus ST manual is 1506kg, and the i30 N hatch manual is 1478kg. Both are too heavy, in my view. (2) The Focus disguises that mass quite cannily. It's more agile, sharper and then more playful than the Hyundai. Doesn't excuse it for being (apparently) heavier, but it does substantially diminish that negative.

[@russellchristison8425]

Another excellent comparison, I prefer the look of the Focus but would by the i30N in liftback styling. I do like the individual driving mode options.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Russell. I also think it's cool that Hyundai offer the N in a couple of different shapes.

[@JBOsurf]

Drove this and the new Fiesta ST back to back. Fiesta was far more impressive as a drivers car. It felt alive. Focus engine was very impressive however.

[@ethneywaters8976]

💙💙💙 FORD RULES!!! 💙💙💙

[@mills3375]

Ethney Waters Facts up the Ford

[@schunkelperser1794]

Just ordered the Focus ST. Plenty of good reasons. 🙂

[@chasingcars]

I am sure you'll enjoy it, Jan.

[@romanmacha2449]

Ordered my ST in Oct. 2019. still waiting, postponed 3rd time now 😪 bloody corona!

[@dheeradjlachman9658]

@@FalconXE302 good for you i dont choose for the ford i want a different brand and my choice is the Hyundai i30N💪

[@mattclark1970]

I've owned the i30n for 6 months and love it. Having previously owned an ST it turned out to be the least reliable car I've owned, so that did it for me. Looked at a Golf R but just too expensive. Locked up a fully speced i30N privately with only 500k's for $40k and really couldn't be happier. Only problem is as a 50 year old I think I will outgrow the manual. Seriously looking at a Kia Stringer within 3 years but love my i30n for now.

[@KING0SISQO]

You can’t “outgrow” a manual. You can automatic. At the end of the day you go with what you feel comfortable with

[@babisotonggg]

wait for Veloster N DCT version, pretty sure you will love it..

[@mattclark1970]

@@KING0SISQO you can when you have to have a knee replacement...

[@frosty1112]

Great comparison and review of both cars Tom. Appreciate the review is a 'new car vs new car' review, but mentioning the after market scene and availability for both models could have been a nice extra, especially given the target buyers. Really enjoyed this video, and the channel overall - cheers

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Frosty. I agree, this is something I'd like to speak more to in future. Perhaps we can leverage keen viewers who own the cars and have dived into the aftermarket world to show the possibilities.

[@frosty1112]

@@chasingcars Sounds like a great idea :)

[@stephenhendricks103]

I watch the channel to feed my envy from here in the US where neither the Focus ST nor the i30N is available.

[@chasingcars]

Bittersweet! Thanks for watching; wish you were able to enjoy the cars.

[@minimumtrade]

We are really quite lucky here. And we get the Fiesta ST and the Megane RS and soon to be Yaris GR4. So much choice, so few manual drivers to lay down the coin on a new one though.

[@danielleroux6490]

Let's all do our part - Write or Call Ford Customer Relations and tell them their customers in America want to buy the new Focus ST - maybe we can convince them it's a profitable choice for them to bring it to the US

[@matthewreffold2723]

Awesome, in-depth review as usual. Something to consider would also be the reliability of the two cars. Although we can’t know for sure just yet a quick chat with my mechanic recently suggested that, in comparison to a previous gen RS which shares the same engine as the new ST, the i30N is far more reliable.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Matthew. Hard to guess the reliability of brand new models but my head says Hyundai for peace of mind in that department, though the five year warranty both cars offer is a massive help.

[@MarceloEsteves-b2f]

It take four years, but finally i got the ST. I'm very 😃pleased

[@hondacar]

The 7 speed auto in the Focus ST is not a dual clutch .

[@chasingcars]

Thankfully I did know that, just a slip of the tongue... good thing a Ford is out of DCTs now as it happens! Will issue a pinned comment correction.

[@grantorino9049]

Go for new i30N 2021 with DCT (wet dual with 8 gears). Its hell of a ride 🥰

[@elmin2323]

i30n for me was waiting to see what the new st was like ive owned the xr5 and the last model st but the i30n kills it in my opinion

[@chasingcars]

Fair enough!

[@silo_fx3182]

Kind of late to this, however in the market for a purchase in 2021. What a fabulous review. Just add the Cupra Leon R and Gulf GTI and you will complete the set :-). Love your reviews and how they translate to real consumers. For me, 2021 i30N based on looks and overall package, however this review has ensured an opened minded test drive of the ST.

[@xetexuk12]

Very insightful and comprehensive review, never seen your channel before, but impressed. Nice one mate! I agree with your verdict too. The Focus would be my choice.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks for watching!

[@avuazahc1966]

great vid however i feel like it would have been even more cool to throw Megane RS Cup in the mix as they all fwd, manual and LSD

[@chasingcars]

Would like to in future.

[@enjoiadrian]

Just some feedback: I found a few of the backing tracks a little loud while you were talking, which was a bit distracting. Was also a lot of road noise while driving, compared to which your voice was quiet. Should be able to boost your vocals a bit through post :) Otherwise a great review, my pick would still be the i30N :D

[@aretokas]

Unfortunately, Ford took too long. I signed a contract for an i30n a week ago. I wanted to test the ST, I really did - I loved my 2007 Focus and it had a good chance of coming out ahead. Ultimately, I think either vehicle is great for their price point.

[@chasingcars]

Fair enough, Deon -- sometimes you just have to make a call. You'll enjoy the i30 N!

[@Clarky_AU]

This was the same for me, i waited and waited for the new ST, but nothing came of it. By the time something came about, i had my N for a while.

[@aretokas]

@@FalconXE302 Try telling the Ford website and Ford dealers in WA that. Basically, when I started looking, there was no way to arrange a test drive and nobody could tell me what was going on. Oh well. I'm happy with the i30N as the choice :)

[@mills3375]

Your absolutely right. I will admit I’m a big Ford fanboy but I know a couple of my mates gave up on waiting for the Focus St and Fiesta St. It’s a poor decision by Ford since the i30N is equally as good as the St and you can have it now for cheaper. Does make me sad since I really want both St to sell well cause I don’t wanna end up like the US and not get both these awesome cars

[@riles1088]

I was exactly the same. Couldn't even get a test drive of the ST. Probably would have slightly preferred it, but if a company cant even get me a test drive or organise a date for one then 0% chance im buying it. 1 week till my I30N lux arrives...

[@suspensiondude]

Drive the I30N at 9 tenths and you'll wear a shit eating grin for days! But my biggest gripe in owning one is the God awful audio system.....but that's it!

[@shelbysoltoggio996]

I was currently looking at buying the Hyundai i30 N but now I think I'm going to have to drive the focus ST.

[@Ausfailia]

There's a new face lifted version of i30n coming out later this year

[@mills3375]

I would go with the St imo

[@AlanBeardEfviUK]

Have owned both, along with a Honda Type R, very difficult to separate the 3. I currently have the Focus which is a great handling car, with a super gearbox/engine combo. Might I suggest though, if you don't need the extra size try out the Fiesta ST.....that car is simply a joy to drive....far better(for me) than the 3 cars I just mentioned.

[@nixodian]

Alan Beard over CTR, why?

[@danielleroux6490]

Go for the Focus ST and never look back at the Hyundai

[@rynomuncher]

I really think the omission of a true “custom” drive mode is a big miss when every other competitor has great custom modes! Also Tom, (I’m sure you know by now) the auto is a torque converter unit, not a dual clutch. Hopefully that’ll help longevity because we all know how previous ford dual clutch units have gone... Loved the video!

[@rynomuncher]

I think I’m still set on a Renault Megane RS Trophy even though I know it’s not a great value. Just love the look and feel!

[@pastorofmuppets8834]

Yes the Megane is the best looker out of all the current hot hatches, IMHO

[@chasingcars]

Yes, slip of the tongue! Let’s not even go there on PowerShift...

[@CJax749]

rynomuncher Heard it has an awful drive feel, I got the Type R instead

[@cmphoto_]

I really wanted to replace my LZ Focus with the new one, the styling is so meh compared to the LZ. I30N just looks like the better pick as an overall.

[@jonathanshin7430]

Thank you for calling Hyundai correctly, not calling 'Hyundie' like everyone in UK.

[@norm2655]

Great review again👍 head says i30n, but heart says Focus ST.... i30n needs another 40-50nm torque.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Norm!

[@christianguidarelli9194]

I agree , torque is king .

[@galiyarr3694]

Could always try get that torque with a tune

[@cmpillred277]

That headline torque figure of 353nm doesn't take into account the over boost function which lasts for up to 18 seconds on full throttle, that figure is 378nm, lower than the Ford but not bad considering it's a smaller engine.

[@babisotonggg]

u should go for veloster N DCT.. tons of goodies on that.. with N grin mode and etc.. defntly enough torque for it

[@riverfire6357]

Please explain to me how they cannot make the RS work in Europe but can make a W 16 engine work or are you joking?

[@chasingcars]

Well I imagine that Ford and Volkswagen have different emission credit positions, but really it’s not up to me

[@Antphoneigh]

Good summary. Hard to pick. It's price and fun vs slightly better torque and luxury.

[@maxmorris4562]

i mean the i30n is the winner for me. Focus's are way too common and in my opinion not as deatiled or as nice to as the i30n

[@camaraderie6]

Hey Tom 👋 I’m US fan of your videos from US. What is your favorite hot hatch to live with? I currently drive GTI MK7. What would you buy from hot hatches to live every day with?

[@chasingcars]

Loads of good choices out there at the moment. I'm still a big fan of the GTI - if they upped it to the engine performance we see in this Focus ST, it'd be quite the threat.

[@camaraderie6]

Chasing Cars You’re right Tom. Unlucky for us, in Europe they have the GTI TCR version with 290 horses pumped on a turbo from the Golf R, updated suspension and some other tweaks. Do you think that might be the king wearing the crown? I also like the focus rs though, just don’t like the driving modes option as you pointed out we can’t customize it. Very good reviews, thank you for them. We love hot hatches! With regards Tomas

[@Mr.SVE86]

Bmw 135m sport Mercedes a45amg Audi rs3

[@danielleroux6490]

Let's all do our part - Write or Call Ford Customer Relationship Center and tell them their customers in America want to buy the new Focus ST - maybe we can convince them it's a profitable choice for them to bring it to the US

[@jamesdouglas7647]

Another good comparison. Well done.

[@chasingcars]

Glad you think so!

[@dpratt776]

Will buy the next mid life i30N with DCT and revamped design inside and out. To that I would buy a Hyundai over a Froud any day.

[@chasingcars]

Will be very interesting to see how the DCT goes in the i30 N.

[@themagicmessiah372]

Love the i30N

[@chasingcars]

It's been a gamechanger for sure

[@nicke1370]

Pretty jealous of someone that gets to review all these cars for their job. The i30 N wins this one for me

[@chasingcars]

There certainly are great days like this one. Thanks for watching.

[@mkimask]

If you compare just the cars - the ST wins. Also I love the colors of the ST, unlike the i30n that is available only in the most boring of colors and a little less boring light blue. But when you start to compare the prices - i30n is just unbeatable and you get 7 years of warranty!

[@chasingcars]

Glad both are available in non-grey colours, at least!

[@xIcarus227]

Pretty sure the prices are actually the same, Ford's list prices are pretty unrealistic. They always offer 'discounts'. I live in Europe and they offered me a 'discount' on a fully loaded Focus ST minus sunroof from 37k EUR to 30k. That's the same price as the i30N in these parts. People in other parts of Europe have quoted similar 'discounts'. Just something to keep in mind, Ford's list prices are almost never real unless you're buying a limited car (Focus RS).

[@mkimask]

@@xIcarus227 did you buy the new generation ST or the previous - 3rd gen one? If we're talking about the previous, I've also got an ST3 3rd gen with almost 7k EUR discount - got it for 25k instead of 32 - but that was mainly because the new gen ST were arriving so they were selling the last remaining 3rd gen STs. I doubt that they will give such huge discounts for the cars that just arrived. Sure, you can always get 2-3k discount but that still would be about 33k for the ford and 28k for hyundai.

[@mkimask]

@@chasingcars still I believe hyundai would benefit greatly if they offer i30n in a larger variety of colors. I look at KIAs and there is always a ton of options to choose from, while i30n is available only in black, grey, white, red and that somewhat interesting blue =)

[@theweirdo61]

Haha after watching the review - which was really informative btw, and hearing what people, who owns these cars, have said, I'm no closer to being able to decide 😂

[@chasingcars]

They're both good hatches, and quite different on the road. Test drive both.

[@KING0SISQO]

How would you compare the 308 gti to the Ford Focus st. Initially I was considering the i30n. Very nearly did. But they don’t do the panoramic roof in my region so it’s a pass. I got the 308 gti only since January but the ST is everything I like about it. How does it feel to drive power wise? Does the st feel much stronger? (Asking because you have driven the 308 gti some time back if you can remember)

[@Darksjeik]

The ST looks like a great car but even today these cars just don’t compare price wise. The N is significantly more affordable here and just offers more bang for buck in that regard.

[@atypical_blk_guy]

Nothing like living in the States and not being able to get either of them

[@latin270]

Let's start a boycott!

[@ultraguy8771]

You guys do have the Veloster N though, right?

[@atypical_blk_guy]

@@ultraguy8771 we do but at age 36 the i30n feels more grown up.

[@Sinisterg60]

@@atypical_blk_guy agreed, at age 36 with 2 children. I can't do the veloster N. Our only options are the Golf R and Civic Type R. Which are a tick to expensive. Hyundai is making a Kona N... i don't know how I feel about that...

[@rekanoiter4480]

@@ultraguy8771 Veloster N is not a 5 door hatch

[@bonganimathebula5780]

I love hot hatches, it's a crime we don't get the ford focus in South Africa anymore, this is the age of the SUV

[@noblemav]

I have a Hyundai i30 Fastback N 2019, no doubt the Ford looks good & performance, hands down i30 N for me.

[@chasingcars]

Hope you're enjoying your car!

[@limpunsing224]

Interesting matchup Awesome comparo review

[@chasingcars]

Thank you!

[@MaxFromSydney1]

I’ve never been so happy to see a traditional handbrake on that i30N. It just brings that extra involvement with the car that electronic handbrakes have taken away, even if like me, you have no interest in pulling handbrake turns.

[@gotresidual86]

Great review!

[@bob6168able]

What is difference between dual clutch and torque converter!!

[@silo_fx3182]

Good question, this is not difficult to Google. One is essentially 'manual' where a computer changes gear for you (dual clutch DCT) - the other is automatic. They are very different in design. You should research and test drive both to understand the difference and what suits you. This is a very confusing area unless you do your homework.

[@danielleroux6490]

basically, the torque converter is better to have with a Ford - it avoids the issue that plagued the previous dual clutch Powersh*%t automatic. That's good news. But I'd still have the manual for sure!

[@mailman98]

ST’s face just isn’t aggressive enough for a hot hatch, looks too similar to the base focus. Shame that they cancelled the RS too.

[@chasingcars]

Quite like the big twin pipes at the rear, though. And I have a thing for grey painted wheels.

[@bob6168able]

Excellent review

[@Bombaygarageqatar]

N 30 all the way

[@chasingcars]

Good car!

[@suspensiondude]

Me too!

[@koopa1375]

What a thorough comparison review! However despite the numerous amount of positive reviews about i30n since launch, I still haven’t seen them often on Sydney’s roads. Many people have reported the ride is too stiff for daily even in normal suspension setting. Is this true? Well I need to test drive one. Btw just test drived a new wrx, to my surprise the ride is quite compliant. Could you please do a wrx review as well? :)

[@chasingcars]

Thank you! I never thought the i30 N was unliveable day to day - at least in the selectable Normal damper setting - but it was certainly firmer than some rivals. Now, with the extra front end compliance, I think it's totally fine. These things are subjective in some ways but on the continuum of hot hatch ride quality, I'd say the i30 N is still on the comfy side.

[@romper6698]

@Koopa137 I've owned the i30N for almost a year now, and as Tom said, its perfectly fine in normal mode. Some points I would make after having owned it for a year. Firstly, it is perfectly acceptable as a daily driver, or just push the "flag" button on the steering wheel and have some fun in it.I read a couple of comments on here about it not being fast enough (on paper). I can assure you that for 99.9999% of the time, its plenty fast enough - it's not designed to be a drag car. What I like. 1. It is fine to drive. 2. It does sound really cool. (You just don't get tired of the sounds it makes!). I do like the more throaty sound of the bigger engine in the ST in the review here - very nice 3. It's a bit different and you don't see a lot of them on the road (I think the release of the DSG will change that) Room for improvement. 1. I'm not a big fan of the looks, particularly the front end. The rear is pretty good though. That new Focus ST is a nicer looking car in my opinion, and the colour options for the Focus XR5/ST have always been awesome in my opinion 2. The engine does get a bit "breathless" higher in the rev range as Tom said. Not always noticeable but definitely there 3. I'm trying to think of something else to add to his list but i really cant. Those are the only two things that stick out for me after watching this review Do i regret buying it? Absolutely not. Would i buy it again? Absolutely yes.

[@danielleroux6490]

Really wish Ford USA brings the Focus ST to the States. I'd buy one, and I know tons of others will too - much better option than the GTI, civic Type R, or Veloster N. It looks better than those rivals and would be a big seller!

[@stevenagy88]

Great comparison Tom. Unfortunately we get neither of these here in Brazil. The i30N really must be something to drive for it to gain such high praise by everyone, because it certainly isn't a looker in my eyes, even less so in the signature baby blue.

[@chasingcars]

It’s a good drive - you’re right though, the blue is not for everyone!

[@cameronm4201]

There is a 6L difference in boot capacity, not 100.

[@kelvpoon]

And you said you will review the focus st soon... 10 months ago....

[@menco106]

Is it true the i30n offers 7 year warranty with track day coverage? Thats a mega selling point fora hot hatch

[@xIcarus227]

Ford also cover track use but they don't market it much. Any hot version of their cars, from the Fiesta ST to the Ford GT have non-competitive track use covered by warranty. Not sure about the warranty length though, this might differ from country to country. Where I live the extended warranty only goes as high as 5 years total.

[@chasingcars]

Both cars have five years of coverage, but Hyundai in particular often use seven years as a deal sweetener.

[@babisotonggg]

yes 7 years with track covered warranty ( non official race ) just normal track days

[@2468yu]

Is really hyundai...compared with ford driving dynamics...!!...good. Well done hyundai great job.

[@addzy85]

It would be interesting to see how the ST compares against the Golf, as if has similar output to an R but a competitor to the GTI. Shame VW don’t offer manual, but fingers crossed we get considered when the the Mk8 launches!!! I think I would go the ST.

[@chasingcars]

Agree. Kind of a shame to see that the Mk 8 GTI isn't bumping outputs beyond 180kW at this point - leaves the Focus out ahead on paper. We'll line up a comparo when the new Golf hits, though VW have pushed it into 2021 for Australia… hmm.

[@canusdominici]

Well done Tom: great production, like how you've mixed up things; fantastic that you tested these cars in an intelligent way unlike your cringy competition. I'd choose the i30n. The ability to adapt the car individually wins this. Oh and thanks for testing manuals!

[@chasingcars]

Thank you - I’m glad to hear you liked the style of this one. And we will keep choosing manual as long as we can.

[@MrSamwiseable]

The Ford is both gorgeous and perfect in every way

[@chasingcars]

High praise!

[@ethneywaters8976]

💙💙💙 FORD RULES 💙💙💙

[@maxmorris4562]

Yeah but the i30n is equally as impressive.

[@Legion_Victrix]

I live in Canada and I own a 2018 ST and Oh my... I would like to have this new ST model but Ford canceled all cars except the Mustang and the E-Mach but they have a full truck line up which is quite stupid IMO. Cheers from Montreal, Canada

[@hamishpym101]

Where in Victoria were the roads you reviewed the cars? I would like to drive them.

[@chasingcars]

This is in the NSW Southern Highlands.

[@hamishpym101]

Chasing Cars thx. Thought it it was Vic as the cars had Vic plates.

[@johnfist18]

Damn the Southern Highlands look good haha

[@bathurst555]

Which it better for someone who does a 200 mile drive 7/8 times a month?

[@AznS0ulja]

Really surprised Tom called it a seven speed dual clutch. Being a motor journalist, should know Ford canned the dual clutch a while back for redevelopment.

[@chasingcars]

Just a slip of the tongue. Had the i30 N DCT on the brain. Will issue a pinned correction.

[@jasonboyle7203]

Went for the HONDA myself lol Think these are two good hatches but I30n better for coin..

[@chasingcars]

The Honda is also a great hot hatch.

[@bradleybprentice1497]

Well done. In this match up, the new Focus ST is hands down the better car with more street cred. The Hyundai is a good hatch but not a car I would feel completely happy with if I purchased it. When you park the, car walk away and look back - that is the test. For 50K the Ford delivers. The GTI takes it up a notch but at premium. Let's see what Mazda delivers once the planned turbo powers the 3 in the near future.

[@chasingcars]

Thanks, Bradley. Agree, will be very interesting to see what happens with the 3 turbo.

[@sanjayrevanna8903]

For me it's a win for the i30 n , I mean it looks fabulous and has all those electronics gizmos and is a much better value than the Ford and is a fun to drive car than the focus and is more reliable , hence hyundai is a better car ..

[@chasingcars]

That's fair enough! For me the Ford just clinches it because of its more playful dynamics, but as I said at the end, I'd be totally happy to own and drive either.

[@letsseeif]

A middle aged widow relation just bought a 20/21 Ford Focus ST. How's that?!

[@jhndijkman]

Wow, nice and thorough comparo between these probably the best available hot hatch out there. Hopefully the fragile engine in the Ford has been well exorcised. The nice big torque number on the bigger pot Ford is a plus. I wonder wether Hyundai get keen on the turbo 2,5 soon to be out in some of their other products.

[@chasingcars]

Yeah, the 2.3 does fine. Also agreed that it'll be interesting to see where Hyundai N goes next in terms of engines.

[@VAspeed3]

Wasn't the engine that was fragile. The head gasket supplier sent the wrong gaskets for the version of the 2.3 in the RS, and Ford didn't notice it. Engines apart from that were fine.

[@bob6168able]

Please compare focus st with scirocco R

[@rambrojps]

That's crazy the mk2 focus has great boot space & back seat space... Interesting

[@lisagrant1098]

Mk4 focus

[@dheeradjlachman9658]

I30N i love that light blue color!!!!

[@chasingcars]

Performance Blue!

[@dheeradjlachman9658]

@@chasingcars yes that one!!

[@pastorofmuppets8834]

Are they bringing the Focus ST wagon?

[@chasingcars]

Not at this stage. Hopefully Ford Australia change their mind.

[@romanmacha2449]

Ordered one in Germany 😬 it‘s called „Turnier“ over here

[@Nathan-rn8yg]

I'd have to give them each a go, but on face value the mk4 focus ST does it for me, reminds me of my old Xr5 turbo in electric orange and that was a delight to drive of which I dearly miss

[@chasingcars]

A fun car that one, terrific Volvo 5cyl!

[@Meniodakis]

I’m really considering to go with the ford Focus ST

[@danielleroux6490]

Yes, definitely the Focus ST for me too!

[@alanpercival6428]

London emission charge's... Understandable I want to move to Australia..

[@lisagrant1098]

It's a 2.3 litre from the mustang not the rs. The rs engine it's not the same that why ford focus rs had so many problems with the head gasket as they put the mustang head gasket on the rs by mistake

[@camerontait9132]

This is going to be good

[@chasingcars]

Hope it lived up to expectations.

[@pictures5149]

Ford and Volkswagen Always produce best driving dynamics cars

[@cagf2013]

Really dislike the pops and crackles from the exhaust on the i30n... also a strange choice of background music for a hot hatch test... thanks for a great video all the same :)

[@chasingcars]

Guess all these things are subjective.

[@PawisPogiVlog]

You can customizable turn it off and keep it in sport .

[@AlanBeardEfviUK]

Good , detailed interesting review. I have mentioned elsewhere that I own or have owned both of these cars along with a Civic Type R. All 3 of those cars are very similar in many ways in terms of driving pleasure, but if size is unimportant I much prefer the Ford Fiesta ST for its great ability in a far lighter body.

[@potaka79]

i30N may let you adjust your driver settings and that's great but at a set of lights those adjustments are not going to help you when a Focus ST pulls up next to you.

[@chasingcars]

Lol.

[@2468yu]

Defenitly focus not need explanation for its capability...it is at par level ...i30 need time

[@arno7303]

This engine was most certainly NOT in the outgoing focus RS. This engine is from the outgoing Mustang ecoboost non HPP version. Cylinder head and turbo was different between Focus RS and Mustang ecoboost. This received the mustang version, detuned to suit fwd chassis. The new mustang HPP received the outgoing Focus RS engine, albeit detuned (different tune) again.

[@chasingcars]

It’s the same 2.3-litre four cylinder as the Focus RS. You’re quite correct that some components vary, but Ford didn’t design a bespoke engine for the RS. It’s this one.

[@arno7303]

@@chasingcars the head is a different unit completely. visibly the casing for the focus rs and the mustang 2.3 are different. ALso the mustang has different Rods compare to the focus RS. The only similarity is the block casing and the overall capacity. If they are the same engine, then the M140i is the same as the M2? Actually they are more similar than the ford varieties

[@chasingcars]

No, the BMW N55 and B58 engines aren’t from the same engine family. Ford’s Ecoboost 2.3 is one engine, shared between Mustang/Focus RS/New ST and a variety of other products, with modular components to suit varying requirements.

[@arno7303]

@@chasingcars so the focus ST has the same head as the Focus RS? "The RS engine’s best feature is a low-inertia, twin-scroll turbocharger with an improved compressor (to boost airflow) and an improved and slightly larger intercooler. Ford has considered the engine right down to its materials, designing the cylinder head from an upgraded alloy, and mounting it on a strong head gasket. To reinforce the strength of the engine, the cylinder block has a durable cast-iron lining for maximum protection. The cylinder head and gasket were both created by high-performance automotive engineering company Cosworth."

[@SandeepSandhu-ii6xw]

Greetings from Scotland :) I have the i30N and its such a blast! This focus does cost more so usually that does translate to being slightly better in different areas. I'm not sure if your roads in OZ are worse than ours but I often use N-mode! to hell with ride comfort lol! Personally I feel with the customization drive modes its better than the focus, perhaps I'm just a bit biased.

[@chasingcars]

So glad to hear you're enjoying the car. Certainly, the Hyundai's tech setup in terms of modes is superior.

[@MrRGM10]

Focus failing sales wise?

[@chasingcars]

I think the mainstream range was a little overpriced and underdone. We'll see if the new positioning - just the ST-Line hatch and the Active hatch, both at $31,990 - makes a difference.