Hyundai unveils new i20 N sports model

Hyundai has unveiled the latest i20 N sports car. Designed for hot hatch racing, it is inspired by the i20 WRC rally car. Like other models of the N sub-brand, Hyundai offers driving pleasure thanks to its superior engine performance and cutting-edge technology. The latest model joins the i30 N and i30 Fastback N, the remaining models in the N range available in Europe.

New Hyundai i20 N

The new i20 N has its roots in motorsport. It is inspired by the i20 Coupe WRC, a rally car based on a modified road version of the Hyundai i20, and is therefore the same weight as the minimum required for the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). It was this model that brought Hyundai the 2019 WRC Manufacturers' Championship title after four stage victories. To date, Hyundai has won a total of 17 top-level victories in international rallies.

“Our N sports sub-brand has been a huge success since we launched the i30 N in 2017. This time we decided to develop a model inspired by the i20 Coupe WRC that led us to victory in the World Rally Championship last year. With the new i20 N, we are expanding the N model range to attract even more customers who want to experience motorsport in their daily lives.” This was stated by Thomas Shemera, executive vice president and head of product division of Hyundai Motor Company.

Uncompromising appearance

The all-new i20 N features an uncompromising design that combines performance with a sporty experience. The exterior of the model emphasizes its racial character, combining elements of Hyundai's rally heritage with the latest design philosophy from Sensuous Sportiness. Aerodynamic and functional elements were added to the sporty and dynamic look of the i20, and the ground clearance was decided to be reduced by 10 mm.

The front end is dominated by a front bumper with an enlarged air intake. The wide, N-branded grille features a unique checkered flag pattern to highlight the new i20 N's track-readiness. The lower part of the front bumper is adorned with a tomato red stripe, which emphasizes the dynamic design of the model. Moldings on the side sills and rear bumper are also made in the same color.

At the rear, a distinctive WRC-style roof spoiler has been added to increase downforce, making the i20 N a pleasure to ride on any road. The spoiler also helps to maintain stability even at high speeds. The rear bumper with integrated diffuser elements and triangular rear fog lamp echoes the i30 N and i30 Fastback N.

Other eye-catching design elements are the LED headlights and darkened taillights. The sportiness of the new i20 N is further emphasized by specially designed 18" light alloy wheels with a matte gray finish and brake calipers with the N logo.

The new i20 N is available in six exterior colours, including signature Performance Blue, exclusive to Hyundai N models. A Phantom Black contrast roof is also available. In addition, tomato red accents further highlight Hyundai's motor DNA.

Exterior colors:

• Performance Blue (optional with Phantom Black roof)
• Intense Blue (optional with Phantom Black roof)
• Polar White (optional with Phantom Black roof)
• Sleek Silver (optional with Phantom Black roof)
• Brass (optional for Phantom Black roof)
• ghost black

Interior design provides space for dynamic driving

The interior of the new i20 N offers space for sporty driving and many signature N features. These include sport seats with integrated headrests for the i20 N, N steering wheel, N shift knob and N sports metal pedals. roof lining.

The digital instrument cluster and multimedia screen have features such as a red bar that changes with engine oil temperature and a shift indicator that suggests the driver the best time to change gear.

The turbocharged engine makes the new i20 N fun to drive.

The new i20 N is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine (1.6 T-GDi) mated to a six-speed manual transmission (6MT). This engine is the first new generation engine in Hyundai's European model. It has a maximum power of 204 hp. and maximum torque of 275 Nm. With a weight of 1190 kg, the power density is one of the best in its class. The new i20 N has a top speed of 230 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds.

The engine offers a flat power curve for high responsiveness and better acceleration for even more fun on the road or on the racetrack. The flat power curve delivers more torque and power at lower revs, making better use of the engine's potential in everyday driving situations. The all-new i20 N maintains maximum torque from 1750 to 4500 rpm and reaches maximum power from 5500 to 6000 rpm. This improves acceleration at medium to high speeds and delivers consistently high performance in a variety of driving conditions.

The new i20 N engine has a special turbo system that is cooled by an intercooler and engine water circuit. The 350 bar high pressure injector system atomizes fuel for faster engine response as well as more efficient mixture preparation.

The 1.6 T-GDi engine uses Hyundai's new variable valve timing (CVVD) technology for even better fuel economy. CVVD adjusts valve opening and closing times based on driving conditions, delivering a performance boost and a three percent improvement in fuel economy.

The 6MT transmission has been specially designed and strengthened for the new i20 N to handle the higher RPM and torque of the engine as well as the Launch Control function. The new i20 N can also be equipped with N Corner Carving, a Limited Slip Differential (mLSD) that uses a mechanically controlled bevel gear to control the transfer of power to the front wheels. The mechanism provides optimal traction and improves traction at every turn, providing a sportier and more dynamic ride.

Enjoy the thrill of driving with advanced features

The new i20 N is equipped with a range of special features for sporty driving pleasure. The N Grin Control system offers customers a high level of personalization in five driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, N and N Custom. Driving modes adjust engine, electronic stability control (ESC), exhaust sound and steering parameters to suit different driving conditions. In Custom N Mode, drivers can select "Normal", "Eco", "Sport" and "Sport+" settings for each of these components according to driving style and road conditions on the multimedia screen. What's more, dedicated N buttons on the steering wheel allow you to quickly switch to previously customized settings. For even more sporty driving pleasure, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) has three modes available: On, Sport and Fully Off.

Like the i30 N, the new i20 N offers a range of sporty features. The Rev Maching function synchronizes the engine speed with the output shaft and has a separate activation button on the steering wheel. Intergas delivers a smoother or sportier gear depending on the driving mode. With Launch Control, the engine and traction control system are optimized for fast acceleration from a standstill like a professional race car driver.

Other motorsport-inspired features include an electric sound generator, an adjustable muffler for superior exhaust sound, a brake pad wear indicator, and special high-performance Pirelli P-Zero 215/40 R18 tires with the letter "HN" (stands for "Hyundai N"). .

driving and driving

Hyundai engineers have fine-tuned and refined the chassis, suspension, brakes and steering of the regular i20 to improve handling and agility so that the all-new i20 N can also take on the racetrack.

The chassis has been reinforced at 12 different points for smoother handling and ease of use on all roads and in all weather conditions.

The suspension has reinforced upper mounts for the front shock absorbers and steering knuckles with modified geometry. Changes include an increased camber angle for better traction and five wheel attachment points, as well as a new anti-roll bar, new springs and dampers for maximum driving pleasure. The all-new N Power Sense axle at the front, combined with a Heavy Duty Torsion Beam (CTBA) at the rear, provides increased rigidity for improved handling and handling. Meanwhile, the high-performance braking system has front discs that are 40mm larger in diameter than the base i20.

The new i20 N offers direct and precise steering for a confident, sporty ride thanks to a reduction gearing from 12.4 (base i20) to 12.0 and a specially tuned electric power steering (C-MDPS) mounted on the steering column.

Comprehensive security package

The new i20 N is equipped with advanced Hyundai SmartSense driver assistance features and systems and meets the highest European safety standards.

Hyundai SmartSense security systems:

• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Blind Spot Monitor (BCW)
• Intelligent Speed Limit System (ISLA)
• Driver Awareness Monitoring System (DAW)
• High Beam Assistant (HBA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LFA)
• Cross Traffic Warning System (RCCW)
• Rear view camera with guide lines (RVM)

Technology and Connectivity

The new i20 N is equipped with the Performance Driving Data System, which monitors and improves the driver's driving skills on the track. This function records and displays driving data including power, torque, turbo boost pressure information. It also comes with a lap and acceleration counter.

The new i20 N comes with an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and special N content. It's also available with the latest version of Bluelink, Hyundai's state-of-the-art Connected Car service. It offers a wide range of services such as Hyundai LIVE Services, traffic monitoring, traffic information and parking navigation capability, as well as remote functions through the Bluelink smartphone app. Bluelink comes with a free five year subscription.

The new i20 N will be available in Europe from spring 2021.

Specifications Hyundai i20 N

• Length - 4075 mm
• Width - 1 750 mm
• Height - 1440 mm
• Wheelbase - 2580 mm
• Engine - Gamma II 1.6 T-GDI
• Transmission - 6-speed manual
• Curb weight - 1190 kg (tbc)
• Engine power - 204 hp (150 kW)
• Torque - 275 Nm
• Maximum speed - 230 km / h
• Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h - 6.7 s

Photos: Hyundai