"Test drive of the 2017 Hyundai i30 N model"

The Hyundai i30 N Performance Pack, a creation of a true car enthusiast, recently made its mark on one of Europe's most iconic driving routes - the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. This picturesque mountain pass, built not for efficiency but for recreation, offers a challenging and exhilarating terrain that the i30 N relishes.

The road, stretching 130km, is not for the faint-hearted. With a maximum speed limit of 130km/h and point-to-point cameras, it demands the driver's full attention. But the i30 N, with its electronically controlled limited slip differential, is more than up to the task.

The corners on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road are a testament to precision engineering. Cambered with a radius that borders on fine art, they provide a thrilling ride, especially when driven at speed. The i30 N, with its 19-inch wheels and 235/40R19 Pirelli P Zero tyres, handles these corners with ease, offering a ride that is both confident and planted.

In more sparse sections, the car feels utterly planted and confidence inspiring at over 200km/h. However, around 160-170km/h seems to be a real sweet spot given the moderate traffic on the road. The i30 N, being driven and enjoyed on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, proves to be a worthy companion on this epic journey.

The i30 N's performance is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo engine that delivers 202 kilowatts. The Performance Pack model offers a more satisfying sonic repertoire and a bit of extra top-end punch over the base model, making every rev count.

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road straddles the eastern Alps between northern Italy and Austria and is closed during heavy snow, reopening in May. The road's toll, which tends to dissuade travellers in lumbering campervans and backpackers in clapped-out Skodas, adds to its exclusivity.

The i30 N, a Korean car, is the brainchild of Albert Biermann, the head of the Hyundai N team who developed the car. The Hyundai i30 N Performance Pack is expected to sell for around $4000-$5000 more than the standard i30 N. With its impressive performance on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, it's clear that the extra cost is well worth it for those seeking a truly exhilarating driving experience.

The 'Hochtor' tunnel on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a 300-meter-long passage, adds an extra layer of excitement to the journey. Despite its challenging nature, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road remains a must-drive for any car enthusiast, and the Hyundai i30 N Performance Pack is the perfect companion for the journey.