Hyundai i20 N hot hatch is expected to use a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine to produce more than 200 bhp
Hyundai returned to the WRC scenes back in 2014 after a decade long hiatus and showcased the i20 WRC machine as well as a couple of new concept at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show to boast its motorsport heritage. Developed on the same lines is the N performance brand firstly previewed through the N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo hybrid sports car concept.
While Hyundai was serious about the N brand, it took quite a long time to bring out the production model, as the i30 was the first proper N badged model to go on sale in the international markets and it made way for the i30 N Fastback. It looks like the N range will be expanded following a brief pause in 2019.
The South Korean auto major is preparing to unleash the N variant on its popular i20 supermini, which is retailed in India as a premium hatchback. While the i30 N goes up against Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf GTI and Subaru Impreza WRX, the upcoming i20 N will lock horns with the highly success Ford Fiesta ST and VW Polo GTI.
According to a report surfaced online, the performance treated i20 N will be up for grabs next year as a launch could be on the cards in early 2020. For improved performance and handling, mechanical changes will be implemented as an uprated engine, stiffened suspension, lowered springs, performance parts including brakes and direct ratio steering will be used.
The 1.6-litre turbocharged T GDI petrol engine employed in the Tucson produces 174 bhp and it could be tuned to generate more than 200 bhp to be on par with the rivals. As previously reported, the Tucson will also receive N treatment with a powertrain capable of pushing out 300 bhp.
Its launch will follow the i20 N and power will be transferred to all four wheels. Speculations surrounding the i20 N have been there for years and it appears that the reality is soon upon us. Hyundai has repeatedly been spied testing the i30 in India and whether it will be introduced here or not remains a mystery. As for the i20 N, the chances are slim considering the performance it will pack.