Upcoming Hyundai i20 N teased undergoing winter testing
Hyundai has released a set of images and a video of the upcoming Hyundai i20 N undergoing winter testing on a frozen lake in northern Sweden. Seen alongside the new hot hatch are some of the N brand's most focussed developments: the i20 WRC car, and the RM19 mid-engined racer. Thierry Neuville, who competes in the WRC for Hyundai, and helped them win their first title in this sport is seen piloting the three cars around the course.
As for the Hyundai i20 N, a few details are visible that differentiate it from the standard car. Most noticeable is the Performance Blue shade that is becoming an N signature, alongside the stickier wheels and tyre combination. The camouflage suggests that we can expect to see more performance-oriented bumpers front and back, with some aero assistance. On the inside, expect a unique interior trim, with red accenting, performance-oriented gauges and drive modes.
Mechanically, we think the i20 N could be powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol that makes over 200PS and 265 Nm. This should come paired with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT. Aside from this, we also expect a bespoke suspension set-up and lowered ride height. This will make it the most powerful i20 ever.
It isn't known if this performance version of the Hyundai i20 will make it to India, although Hyundai India has said that it is evaluating the viability of the N sub-brand for the Indian market. If that works out, the i20 N could be the perfect vehicle to start off that brand in the country. The nameplate's brand recall and a fairly competitive price could be major advantages. Globally, the i20 N will compete with cars like the Volkswagen Polo GTi and the Ford Fiesta ST when it launches early 2021.