The Northern Rivers Times
!!!January 25, 2024
Locally owned and independent
MOTORING NEWS 41
Hyundai Unveils Ioniq 5 N NPX1 Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon, Previews High-Performance Electric Parts for Australian Market By Jeff Gibbs Hyundai has taken the wraps off the Ioniq 5 N NPX1 concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon, offering a glimpse into the future of the ‘N Performance Parts’ line designed for the high-performance variant of the Ioniq 5 electric hatchback. Boasting an impressive 478kW/770Nm power output and a rapid 0-100km/h acceleration claims of 3.4 seconds, the NPX1 concept serves as a showcase for the upcoming performance parts and software upgrades set to hit showrooms in Australia later in 2024. The NPX1 concept, based on the Ioniq 5
N, introduces a sinister
front bumper, side skirts,
pads, complemented by a
black design while
a rear bumper diffuser,
lower stance courtesy of
featuring lightweight
and a hatch-mounted
sports suspension.
body additions that
rear spoiler. The
Cabin upgrades for the
enhance aerodynamics.
concept also rides on
NPX1 include racing
Notable components
lighter ‘hybrid carbon’
bucket seats trimmed
include a carbon-fibre
wheels and employs
in Alcantara material,
splitter on the lower
high-performance brake
adding a touch of
performance-focused luxury to the interior. However, the true innovation lies beyond physical enhancements. Joon Park, Vice President of N Brand, hinted at the inclusion of software customization through Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. This forward-thinking approach aims to provide a new category of Electric Vehicle (EV) customization, allowing users to fine-tune sound and vehicle calibration. While Hyundai has confirmed that the ‘N Performance Parts’ will be available across the N line-up when they hit the market later in 2024, specific details about the parts and their availability in Australia
are yet to be confirmed. A Hyundai Australia spokesperson expressed enthusiasm about the potential for customers to enhance their vehicles, drawing parallels with the i30 N and the Ioniq 5 N’s aesthetic. In related developments, Hyundai announced in December 2023 its plans to introduce the Ioniq 5 eN1 Cup Car for a one-make racing series, expected to be unveiled in February 2024. The NPX1 concept provides a sneak peek into the enhancements that may feature in the racing version, offering a tantalizing preview of the future of Hyundai’s electric racing endeavours.
Mazda Unveils Spirited Return to Performance-Car Market with Concept Models of Turbocharged Mazda 3 and MX-5 under Spirit Racing Brand
By Jeff Gibbs Mazda is gearing up for a compelling re-entry into the performance-car realm with the unveiling of two high-performance concepts – a potential turbocharged Mazda 3 hot hatch and an exhilarating Mazda MX-5 roadster. These concepts, introduced under the newly established Spirit Racing brand, offer a glimpse into Mazda’s commitment to performance and innovation, with confirmed production versions set to hit Japanese showrooms in the near future. The standout feature in this announcement is the
possibility of the Mazda 3 being equipped with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, hinting at a promising successor to the beloved Mazda 3 MPS turbo hot hatch that exited showrooms in 2013. While a turbo version of the Mazda 3 has been available in North America for over three years, the lefthand-drive exclusivity has left Australian enthusiasts eagerly awaiting a potential right-hand-drive release. Although the details regarding the availability of these Spirit Racing performance vehicles outside of Japan remain uncertain, Mazda Japan has expressed a contemplation of
overseas expansion in the future. The Spirit Racing 3 concept, representing a modified Mazda 3 hatch, showcases an array of performance enhancements. These include a deep front splitter, a new rear diffuser, black side skirts, and a striking ‘swan-neck’ rear spoiler crafted from carbon fibre. Upgraded brakes with red Brembo callipers and slotted discs are concealed behind new 18-inch black six-spoke wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza Tyres. The interior reflects a racing aesthetic, featuring suede-wrapped steering wheel, gear selector,
and dashboard, along with Recaro sports bucket seats with racing harnesses. The heart of the Spirit Racing 3 is rumoured to house a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, described as a “new engine” distinct from the existing 2.5-litre unit available in the Mazda 3. This potential powerplant upgrade aligns with Mazda’s efforts to refine suspension and aerodynamics through its Super Taikyu racing activities.
Complementing this, the Spirit Racing RS, based on the MX-5, amplifies the excitement with a front splitter, side skirts, and a sportier rear diffuser. Its 17-inch six-spoke wheels, Brembo brake callipers, and Bridgestone Potenza RE71RS track-day Tyres contribute to an enhanced driving experience. Inside, the MX-5 concept boasts suede or Alcantara trims, Recaro bucket seats, and harnesses, delivering a compelling blend of comfort and
GIBBO’S
AUTOPARTS
performance. Both vehicles share a distinctive grey paint scheme with black stripes, red accents, and Spirit Racing badges, reflecting Mazda’s dedication to a sporty and dynamic design. While the Spirit Racing RS is expected to be powered by the familiar 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, more details on the power outputs and features of these exciting Spirit Racing road cars are anticipated closer to their production debuts.
KYOGLE’S LOCAL AUTO PARTS SHOP
From sedans to 4WDs, we have auto parts for every make and model
OPEN 7 DAYS Monday-Friday 8-5, Saturday 8-1, Sunday 9-12
1 Irwin Street KYOGLE - PH: 6632 2733 e: gibboskyogle@outlook.com
