2021 Hyundai i20 N hot hatch ready to take on Fiesta ST

Hyundai has announced details of its new high-performance i20 N, describing it as a “racetrack ready” hot hatch inspired by the firm’s world rally car.

Positioned squarely against the Ford Fiesta ST, the new i20 N uses a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine to offer 201bhp and 203lb ft. Hyundai says this makes the i20 N good for 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 143mph.

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The four-cylinder engine, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox, is a new unit for European Hyundais and features an uprated turbo and intercooler for better performance as well as a high-pressure injection system and “continuous variable valve duration”, which Hyundai says offers improved performance and economy.

The standard i20’s chassis has been upgraded for the N with reinforcement at 12 key points, N-specific suspension geometry and components, uprated brakes and a recalibrated steering system.

(Photo: Hyundai)

Other performance-focused additions include rev-matching on downshifts, a launch control function, left-foot braking calibration, brake pad wear indicator and an optional mechanical limited slip differential.

Five drive modes allow quick switching between eco, normal, sport and N modes plus a configurable N Custom setting where drivers can adjust throttle, steering, exhaust and stability control settings individually.

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Visually, the i20 N is identifiable from other i20s thanks to its 18-inch black alloys, N-branded brake calipers and rally-inspired body kit with a deeper, wider air intake and grille featuring the N logo and a chequered flag graphic. A lip spoiler and deep side skirts feature unique Tomato Red accents while the rear of the car features a large roof spoiler, diffuser-style design for the rear bumper, a centre exit exhaust and triangular fog light similar to that on the i30 N.

The i20 N will arrive in the UK in early 2021 and prices are still to be confirmed but with the Fiesta ST starting at £22,275 expect a similar starting price for the Hyundai.

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(Photo: Hyundai)

The i20 N will sit at the top of the all-new i20 range for which Hyundai has just confirmed pricing and specifications.

Starting at £18,595, the i20 comes in three trim standard lines, all equipped with mild hybrid technology.

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SE Connect offers 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, customisable digital instrument cluster, air conditioning, cruise control, rear parking sensors and camera plus Hyundai’s SmartSense safety package.

The £20,795 Premium adds 17-inch wheels, LED lights front and rear, privacy glass, a 10-.25-inch touchscreen, auto wipers and climate control plus heated front seats, heated steering wheel and front arm rest. Buyers also get Hyundai’s Bluelink connected services and the addition of lane follow assist to the safety package. £22,095 gets you the Ulimate trim with two-tone paintwork, keyless entry and start, wireless phone charging, a Bose stereo, blind-spot collision warning and forward collision assist.

All models come equipped with a 1.0-litre three cylinder petrol engine producing 99bhp and featuring 48V mild hybrid assistance for economy of 55.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 155-17g/km. A choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic is the only drivetrain option.

(Photo: Hyundai)

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