Hyundai teases probable 2021 i20 N in new video

MANILA: South Korean automobile manufacturer Hyundai Motor revealed the all-new i20 hatchback last month and was slated to introduce the car at the Geneva International Motor Show. The show has since been cancelled because of the Coronavirus outbreak in Europe. The company has now released a video of a new car which seems to be a sportier version of the compact hatchback. The model is being touted to be the new i20 N.

While the image of the new car is abstract, Hyundai seems to have applied some elements to the next-generation i20 that hints towards a full-fat N model, instead of the N-Line trim which is expected to join the i20 series later. The elements include large turban-type wheels, and a red stripe running along the sill. Compared to the standard Hyundai i20, the car in the picture appears to have a deeper front splitter, a bulkier rear bumper, and a rather tall rear wing.

The powertrain of the expected i20 N is, of course, unknown for the time being. The turbocharged 2.0-litre ‘Theta’ engine which hauls the Hyundai i30 N is unlikely to be found in the i20 N because of the motor’s weight and size. A possible alternative could be the 4-cylinder, turbocharged 1.6-litre motor which hauls the Kona. The engine may not have the integrated 48v mild-hybrid system which is found in most of the cars in the i20 series.

The output numbers of the probable i20 N, as of now, are entirely speculative. The 1.6-litre unit is expected to produce around 200PS maximum power which is less than the standard i30 N (247PS).
The i20 N will be entering a keenly contested segment. It will lock horns with the Ford Fiesta ST. That aside, it has to rival the upcoming Peugeot 208 in the GTi form. The latter may be introduced in an all-electric avatar instead of an internal combustion engine (ICE).

The i20 N, as and when it debuts, will come with a lot of momentum from the manufacturer itself. Hyundai already has the i30 N in its portfolio. The i20 N is likely to be revealed later this year.

Also Read: Hyundai releases 2020 i30 details, the hatchback gets a hybrid option