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In an automotive world bombarded with crossovers and SUVs, it’s refreshing to see a new hatch. Hyundai is gearing up to expand its N portfolio of performance cars with the addition of a spirited supermini positioned above the all-show i20 N lineup that was revealed last month. Ahead of an official reveal that is expected to take place in the coming weeks, the South Korean company has released a couple of teasers to ease the wait.
We can already see that the styling is much more aggressive compared to the aforementioned N Line model, with larger air intakes and a prominent front splitter. Additionally, the full i20 N has thicker side skirts and enlarged N-brand brakes, while the rear is home to a roof-mounted spoiler and larger exhaust tips that we saw in the spy photos.
The i20 N will also sit closer to the road than any other version of the subcompact hatchback and will ride on a unique set of 18-inch wheels reserved for the topper of the range. Completing the exterior trim will be a two-tone finish with a Performance Blue main paint contrasted with the Phantom Black roof. A pair of close-fitting seats will be the biggest change to the interior, where there will likely be a sportier steering wheel and other similar improvements.
Needless to say, the real magic will be under the hood. While Hyundai only says that the i20 N will have a turbocharged engine, some posts had a chance to drive prototypes and discover the oily parts. The heart and soul of the sporty little hatch will be a 1.6-liter gasoline engine that produces 201 horsepower and 203 pound-feet (275 Newton-meters) of torque.
The smallest of the N models will be offered only with a six-speed manual transmission that works in conjunction with a limited-slip differential that is offered as standard or optional, depending on the market. Tipping the scales at just under 1,200 kilograms (2,645 pounds), the i20 N will hit 62 mph (100 km / h) from a standstill in 6.7 seconds and hit a respectable 143 mph (230 km / h).
New to a European-spec Hyundai, the powerful four-engine is said to have low turbo lag and deliver full power at around 6,000 rpm. Torque kicks in at around 2,000 rpm and that DIY transmission offers silky smooth gear changes. When you need to stop, the 320mm front discs will do the heavy lifting.
When it comes to suspension, the i20 N has a reinforced MacPherson strut setup on the front axle and a more robust rear torsion bar arrangement. Behind the seats, a removable low clamp similar to the one you’ll find on the larger i30 N runs through the wheel arches.
The Hyundai i20 N will go on sale in Europe next spring and will compete with the Ford Fiesta ST and VW Polo GTI.
