When is a minivan not just a people transporter? When you’re in Hyundai’s iMax N ‘Drift Bus”. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 402 horsepower and 409 pound-feet of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels, it has perfect 50:50 weight distribution when all eight of its seats are occupied. Read more for a video, additional pictures and information.
Suspension wise, it boasts electronically-controlled dampers, while the brakes have been upgraded to N performance rotors, all topped off with 19” alloy wheels wrapped in performance rubber. Inside, there’s an N steering wheel, N sports front seats, complete with two rear bench seat rows trimmed in matching suede and leather.
The inspiration for ‘Drift Bus’ came from Hyundai Germany, who posted an iMax N image as an April Fool’s prank earlier in the year. In a social media poll asking Australian N fans which Hyundai model should get the N treatment next, the iMax people mover finished in second place, after the Tucson SUV. The Tucson would have been too easy. The N philosophy of BPM not RPM – putting driving thrills and excitement ahead of ultimate performance,” said Hyundai in a press release.