Designed to dominate, the Hyundai i20N shows off a jaw-dropping blend of style and power that cannot be ignored. After undergoing an exciting series of changes from its predecessor, it’s natural to expect a high-performance hatchback that goes above and beyond the norm. If the award of ‘Best Hot Hatch’ at the Car of the Year Awards 2023 doesn’t instantly entice your interest, then seeing it in action surely will; just check out what this incredible car can do below.
Inspired by Hyundai’s rally-winning i20 WRC Coupe, the i20N shares a kinship with its racing inspirations both on the track and road. LED multi-faceted headlights, an optimised power-to-weight ratio and tailored exhaust sound through a variable muffler control are just the beginning of a nostalgic throwback to rally driving excitement.
The aggressive and sporty looks of the i20N creatively fuse with an alluring calmness first hinted at by its N-Line Performance Blue colouring. To fully understand how this award-winning hot hatch injects everyday excitement into its architecture, you need only look at it in action. Flat and secure handling maintains an air of playfulness on twisty roads, while effortless navigation through cityscapes derives from a slick gear shift, easy clutch pedal and responsive steering. Find out how the i20 N introduces the excitement of rally into our lives below.
Awaiting your command underneath the i20 N is a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine that's been tuned to answer your desires with accuracy and excitement. A 6-speed manual transmission directs up to 204PS of power and 275Nm of torque in the palm of your hand. Pair this with a lightweight design of just 1,190kg (aligning with its rally-champion brother), and you will immediately notice a performance of complete composure. From a top speed of 143mph and a 0-62mph acceleration in just 6.2 seconds, it’s clear that the i20 N achieves its impressive intent across its entire spectrum of capabilities.
Naturally, the refreshed architecture of the i20 N goes beyond its engine. To truly capture and control the essence of its power, a series of valuable additions have been introduced throughout which remain effortlessly active no matter where or how you drive. Launch Control and weighty steering tame the solid punch waiting inside, while a stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes, a stronger body and Pirelli tyres ensure that its rally roots remain in the foreground of its personality. Unique to its N-Line upgrade include:
While the exterior and beating heart of the i20 N inspires a desire to meet the road with intensity, open the door and you’ll find a relaxed and composed interior that reminds you of its intended everyday use. If value hasn’t already been exceeded, inspecting the i20 N’s specifications surely will as its kit offers more than you could ask for in a hot hatch. A 10.25” touchscreen abundant with satellite navigation, lane keep assist and cruise control reinforces an everyday practicality that contrasts against its adrenaline nature. A 10.25” supervision cluster is also found within easy viewing, allowing for your constant control of the car’s incredible capabilities.
The essentials aren’t forgotten either, with USB plugs, a 12V power socket, and advanced parking assistance being close by to ensure your convenience. Additionally, comfort in the i20 N is met with a poised readiness through Black N Sports seats, keyless entry, engine start/stop button and more. A 352-litre boot space is a welcome bonus, accommodating all your essentials effortlessly no matter where you go. As you spend more time in the i20 N, you’ll soon find out that, every day, a new combination of enjoyment and adventure is refreshingly discovered.