Hyundai Adds New I20 N to Their High Performance Range

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 offers fun to drive characteristics 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 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.”

An uncompromising and powerful exterior design

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. 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. 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 18‑inch 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

Interior 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 AVN 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 204 PS and a maximum torque of 275 Nm for ultimate power delivery. With 1,190 kg 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 0‑100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds.

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.

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.

Ride and handling

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 40 mm larger than the regular i20, for increased fading resistance and a more consistent brake pedal feel.

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 PS, 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. It is also available with the latest version of Bluelink, Hyundai’s state-of-the-art connected car services. This offers a wide range of Connected Car services such as Hyundai LIVE Services, Connected Routing and Last Mile Navigation, as well as remote features via the Bluelink smartphone app. Bluelink comes with a free five-year subscription.

Technical specifications

Dimension - 4,075 x 1,750 x 1,440 (WB: 2,580) mm

Engine - Gamma II 1.6-litre T-GDi

Transmission - 6-speed manual transmission

Weight - 1,190 kg (TBC)

Power (PS) / Torque (kgm) - 204 / 28.0

Top speed (km/h) - 230

Acceleration (0-100 kph) - 6.7s