Hyundai has been very open about its intentions to launch a mid-engined sports car and in Korea, a prototype for such a car was recently spotted on the back of a flatbed.
This image, first published by Bobaedream, shows that the prototype is adorned with graphics reading ‘MR23T.’ Most of the prototype’s bodywork is shared with the current Hyundai Veloster N but the flared rear-wheel arches similar to those of the mid-ship RM19 all but confirm this tester has its engine behind the passenger cell.
A report from TKCB (The Korean Car Blog) claims that the name ‘MR23T’ refers to a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout and a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine with direct injection. Hyundai’s current N-branded models use a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with up to 271 hp and it is claimed this larger 2.3-liter unit will be good for 312 hp. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s claimed this prototype sports an electric motor that adds an extra 80 hp, bringing combined power up to the same 390 hp as the RM19 concept.
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In May 2019, the Hyundai Motor Group announced a strategic partnership with Rimac Automobili to invest approximately $90 million into the Croatian company. It is understood that Rimac will help with the development of Hyundai’s mid-engined sports car and, presumably, be responsible for the aforementioned electric motor that it will feature.
While the mid-engined prototype in question wears the body of the current Hyundai Veloster, the finished product is expected to have a look of its own.
It remains to be seen when the car will launch but we’ll be happy to wait for it to materialize regardless of the timeframe with the knowledge that it will likely eclipse the almighty i30 N in every performance realm.
