WE WERE A LITTLE DOUBTFUL that Hyundai would actually launch its exciting little i20 hot hatch in Australia, particularly since the standard i20 was dropped from the range some time ago.
But we were wrong.
Hyundai Motor has revealed its latest high-performance model, the all-new i20 N, a racetrack capable hot hatch inspired by the i20 WRC rally car. As with other Hyundai N models, it promises to be great fun to drive thanks to its exclusive engine performance and dynamic technology innovations. The latest model joins the i30 N and i30 Fastback N among Hyundai’s high-performance line-up in Europe and Australia to satisfy performance-oriented enthusiasts.
The all-new i20 N has its roots in motorsport. It is inspired by the i20 Coupe WRC, a rally car based on a highly modified version of the road-going Hyundai i20, and thus has the same weight as the minimum weight required in FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). The model has led Hyundai to success: in 2019, Hyundai was crowned the WRC manufacturers’ champion after securing four wins during the season. To date, Hyundai has scored a total of 17 wins at the highest level of international rally competition.
“Our high-performance N brand has been hugely successful since we launched the i30 N in 2017. This time, we decided to develop a model inspired by our i20 Coupe WRC, which last year led us to success in the World Rally Championship,” says Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President and Head of Product Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “With the all-new i20 N, we are expanding our high-performance N line-up to appeal to even more customers who want to experience the thrill of the racetrack in their everyday lives.”
Uncompromising and powerful exterior design
The all-new i20 N presents an uncompromising and powerful look to match its undiluted high-performance experience. The exterior design of the model emphasises its high-performance nature by combining elements of Hyundai’s rallying heritage with the company’s latest Sensuous Sportiness design identity, which creates an emotional appeal for drivers. It adds aerodynamically functional forms to the sporty and dynamic styling of its base model, the class-leading Hyundai i20, such as a 10mm lower ground clearance.
The front is dominated by the front bumper with a larger air intake for the turbo engine. The wide radiator grille with N logo features a unique pattern inspired by a chequered flag, underlining the all-new i20 N’s racetrack capability. Below the grille, a lip spoiler featuring Tomato Red accents further enhances the model’s performance-oriented design. This colour extends to the new side skirt and the rear, emphasising its width. Meanwhile, unique side sills reinforce the link between the front and rear of the car.
At the rear, a distinctive WRC-inspired roof spoiler enhances downforce and underscores the aerodynamic nature of the all-new i20 N so that it is fun to drive on any road and helps maintain stability even at high speeds. A rear bumper with built-in diffuser-like elements and triangular rear fog light echo the iconic light shape found on the i30 N and i30 Fastback N. In addition, a big single exhaust emphasises the high-performance potential of the engine.
Other design highlights include front LED headlamps, while the darkened tail lamps resemble a black diamond. The all-new i20 N’s sporty credentials are further accentuated by its bespoke 18inch alloy wheels with a grey matte finish and N-branded brake callipers.
The all-new i20 N comes in six exterior colours including the N signature Performance Blue livery, which is exclusive to Hyundai N models, and an optional Phantom Black roof for a two-tone style. Additional Tomato Red accents further emphasise Hyundai’s motorsport DNA.
Exterior colours:
- Performance Blue (with optional Phantom Black roof)
- Intense Blue (with optional Phantom Black roof)
- Polar White (with optional Phantom Black roof)
- Sleek Silver (with optional Phantom Black roof)
- Brass (with optional Phantom Black roof)
- Phantom Black
Interior design offers a high-performance driving space
Inside, the all-new i20 N represents a high-performance driving space with a host of N-specific advanced and high-tech premium features. This includes dedicated sport seats with an integrated headrest that are unique to the all-new i20 N, as well as N steering wheel and N gear knob and sporty N metal pedals. The black interior features Performance Blue accents throughout and all-black head lining.
The digital cluster and multimedia screen include features such as the variable LED red zone, which varies according to engine oil temperature, and the shift-timing indicator, which shows the driver the best time to switch gears.
A turbocharged fast-power engine
The all-new i20 N is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged GDi engine with a six-speed manual transmission (6MT). This engine is the first of a new generation to feature in a European Hyundai model, and delivers a maximum output of 150kW and a maximum torque of 275Nm for ultimate power delivery.
With 1190kg of weight just as the i20 Coupe WRC, the power-to-weight ratio is one of the best in class. The all-new i20 N delivers a maximum speed of 230 km/h, and can go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds.
The engine offers flat power, which ensures high responsiveness and improved acceleration for even more fun on the road or on the racetrack. Flat power provides more torque and power at lower RPMs, thereby utilising more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving situations. The all-new i20 N keeps maximum torque between 1750 and 4500rpm, and achieves maximum power between 5500 and 6000rpm. This improves acceleration in the mid- and high-speed range and delivers consistent high performance in a variety of driving conditions.
The all-new i20 N’s engine features an exclusive turbo system which is cooled by an intercooler and the water circulation of the engine. A 350-bar high-pressure injection rail provides for fuel atomization, a faster engine response, as well as a more efficient mixture preparation.
The 1.6 T-GDi engine utilises Hyundai’s new Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology to further optimise fuel efficiency. The CVVD regulates the duration of valve opening and closing according to driving conditions, achieving a boost in performance and three per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.
Meanwhile, the 6MT has been refined and reinforced especially for the all-new i20 N to cope with higher RPM, torque and Launch Control to give its drivers a dynamically immersive driving experience. The all-new i20 N can also be equipped with the N Corner Carving Differential, a Mechanical Limited Slip Differential (mLSD) that utilises a mechanically controlled Torsion gear type to control the power transfer to the front wheels. It provides optimum traction and enhances grip on every corner for a sportier and more agile ride.
High-performance features for the thrill of driving
The all-new i20 N is equipped with a number of dedicated functionalities for a sporty fun-to-drive experience. The N Grin Control System offers customers a high level of customisation, with five distinct drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, N and N Custom.
The drive modes adjust the parameters of the engine, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), exhaust sound and steering in order to optimise them for a variety of driving conditions.
In the N Custom mode, drivers can select from Normal, Eco, Sport and Sport+ settings for each of the mentioned components to match driving preferences and road conditions via a “Spider diagram” on AVN screen.
Moreover, dedicated N keys on the steering wheel flexibly allow any type of pre-sets to be mapped according to individual needs. For even sportier pleasure of driving, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be operated in three stages: on, sport and fully off.
Like the i30 N, the all-new i20 N boasts a range of high-performance driving features. Rev Matching synchronises the engine to the output shaft and has its own dedicated activation button on the steering wheel. This allows smoother or sportier downshifts, depending on the drive mode. With Launch Control, the engine and traction control are optimised for quick acceleration from a standing start just like a professional race driver.
Other motorsport-inspired features include an electric sound generator, variable muffler control for the perfect exhaust sound, as well as left-foot braking calibration, a brake pad wear indicator (PWI), and dedicated 215/40 R18 Pirelli P-Zero ultra-high-performance tyres with “HN” mark (standing for “Hyundai N”).
Ride and handling
Hyundai’s engineers have retuned and refined the regular i20’s chassis, suspension, brakes and steering in order to deliver more agile ride and handling so that the all-new i20 N is capable of handling the thrills of the racetrack.
The chassis has been reinforced at 12 different points to ensure smoother handling and usability on any road and in all weather conditions. This includes a redesigned undercover and an additional bracket.
The suspension features reinforced front domes and knuckles with adjusted geometry. This includes increased camber for better traction and five fixation points for the wheel as well as a new anti-roll bar, new springs and shock absorbers for maximum driving fun. The all-new N Power Sense Axle at the front combined with a Dual Coupled Torsion Beam Axle (CTBA) at the rear provide higher stiffness for improved ride and handling performance.
Meanwhile, the high-performance brakes feature an increased front disc, which is 40mm larger than the regular i20, for increased fading resistance and a more consistent brake pedal feel.
The all-new i20 N offers direct and precise steering for confident, sporty driving through a reduced steering ratio of 12.0 (i20: 12.4) and its specifically tuned column-mounted motor driven power steering system (C-MDPS).
A comprehensive safety package
The all-new i20 N is equipped with Hyundai SmartSense Advanced Drivers Assistance System features and complies with the highest European safety standards. This includes features such as Forward Collision Assist City / Interurban / Pedestrian (FCA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW).
Hyundai SmartSense safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist-City / Interurban / Pedestrian / Cyclist (FCA)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW)
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)
- Driver Attention Warning System inc. Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) (DAW+)
- High Beam Assist (HBA)
- Lane Following Assist (LFA)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)
- Rear view monitor with parking guidance (RVM)
Tech and connectivity
The all-new i20 N features a Performance Driving Data System to monitor and improve the driver’s track skills. This feature saves and displays driving data, including information on power, torque, turbo boost. It also comes with a lap and acceleration timer.
The all-new i20 N comes with an optional 10.25-inch LCD touchscreen navigation system with dedicated N content, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Australian Market
The new all-new i20 N will launch locally in the first half of 2021. The Australian model line-up and specification will be announced closer to launch.
Technical specifications
| Dimensions | 4075mm x 1750mm x 1440mm (WB: 2580mm) |
| Engine | Gamma II 1.6-litre T-GDi |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual transmission |
| Weight | 1190 kg (tbc) |
| Power | 150kW |
| Torque | 275Nm |
| Top speed | 230km/h |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 6.7 sec |