When we talk about performance vehicles there is often one performance statistic that’s requested for our discussion. That statistic is the time that it takes a car to make the loop around the Nurburgring test track in Germany. This time is one that we like to put up against the rest of the market to see how the car compares, but there are some car experts who feel the testing at this track takes away from the potential fun and driving performance that most of us can enjoy when it’s time to head out on the road.

The cars that make their way to Nurburgring for the lap time records are driven by professional drivers, have different aero and suspension settings from what’s offered at the dealership, and have been built to perform perfectly at this track. This can make for a car that’s not fun to drive in the city or on an open road, which is where you’re more likely going to find the fun and active drive you want to enjoy when you head out for a drive in the car you choose for your daily needs and a bit of fun when the moment presents itself.

Developed at Nurburgring, but not Meant for It

The newest performance model from Hyundai that we want to learn more about and see for the drive we’ll make is the new Hyundai Veloster N. This is the first of the N sub-brand models that will be offered in the US market and it has been tuned and developed at Nurburgring, but not specifically for this track. While this car spent time at this track, we will see it as a car that can give us the fun and active driving we want on nearly every road.

The reason for this car being a daily driver that can give you the fun you want is because it’s been made for everyone to be able to enjoy it, not just the professional drivers. Albert Biermann, President and head of the Performance Development and High Performance Division at Hyundai had a strong influence in making sure this car was built the right way for the masses to have fun when driving. Biermann is a former head of the BMW M division, which means he knows what he’s doing when it’s time to create a car that is active and fun to drive.

The new Veloster N model is ready to bring you a respectable 275 horsepower to be the newest member of the hot hatch lineup offered in the US, but we won’t find out about the Nurburgring lap times because that’s not part of what this car is offering as an important quality or statistic. This is a car that has the driving dynamics and fun aspects you want when you’re ready to head out on the road and see some open area in front of you that will encourage you to put the pedal down and see how the car performs.

Looking for something slightly different? Opt for the Hyundai Santa Fe.