Building a loyal enthusiast following from the ground up isn’t something carmakers typically pull off overnight. For Hyundai, a brand that wasn’t exactly on anyone’s radar for fun, driver-focused cars to begin with, establishing its N performance sub-brand was not just about creating engaging machines. It was about cultivating a culture, and that’s a far more elusive achievement.
Review: What’s It Like Living With The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N? However, thanks to a host of owner-focused events, Hyundai Australia has done just that. There are now thousands of tightly-knit N owners across the country, helping the company’s creations become among the nation’s best-selling hot hatches.
Not only that, but cars like the i20 N and i30 N have become genuine benchmarks in their respective segments. In late November, the annual N Festival returned for its seventh iteration, but with a twist. Not only was the event open to N owners, but also to a select number of owners from other brands, so we decided to join in with a bright yellow Renault.
The 2025 event was held at Winton Raceway, roughly two hours north of Melbourne. As interest in the N Festival has increased in recent years, it’s no longer just an event run over Saturday and Sunday, but for the first time, it was extended to a three-day event. For eager owners wanting to get onto the track, there’s no better event.
More than 350 cars attended in December. To join in, all that was required was a AU$60 ($40) entrance fee. In return, owners get ample time on the track, a gift bag of N merchandise, and tutelage from experienced driving instructors.
This makes it an absolute bargain, particularly since regular track days usually start at upwards of AU$300 ($200). ’ These sessions were open to 20 non-N car owners each of the three days. To participate, you needed to receive an invitation from an N owner and to pay the same fee.
I managed to secure a spot for my Renault Megane RS275. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, participants were split into six groups of drivers, with instructors providing guidance and feedback throughout the sessions. The atmosphere was lively, with owners sharing tips and advice on how to improve their driving skills.
It’s clear that Hyundai has created something special here – a community that's passionate about performance and dedicated to helping each other get the most out of their cars. As an expert in the field, it's exciting to see a brand like Hyundai taking the lead in creating engaging owner experiences. The N Festival is more than just an event – it's a celebration of the passion and dedication of its owners, and it's an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves driving.
The N Festival is a shining example of how carmakers can create a loyal following by focusing on the owner experience. By providing a platform for enthusiasts to share their passion and learn from each other, Hyundai has built a community that's truly unique in the industry.
