Hayden Paddon won't contest the final of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship in China in October, despite dominating the first rounds of the Pacific Cup.
The winner-takes-all shootout would seem like a done deal for Paddon to win, but he won't be there.
“It’s too expensive for one shootout where things could go wrong. Too risky for us," he told www.talkmotorsport.co.nz.
He's now eyeing off Australia's Eureka Rally in August, where he'll drive Marcus Walkem's Hyundai i20 R5.
“There are a lot of similarities with our AP4 car and the (Hyundai) R5," Paddon added.
“The R5 works in a wider window, whereas the AP4 works slightly better when it’s in the window, but the window is very narrow in an AP4.
"The R5 probably has more torque, while the AP4 has more horsepower.
“All in all they are pretty even, although on fast stages the AP4 would be faster, while in twisty stages it would be the R5."
Paddon's current AP4+ car that he has successfully run in New Zealand has seen its last stage rally.
The car is being converted to a higher specification for rallysprints, perhaps suggesting that the Kiwi could be eyeing an R5 Hyundai for future national events.
Paddon has already been tipped to drive an i20 R5 at Rally Australia in November.
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.
