The new generation Hyundai i20 is ready to
take on the supermini class with refined looks and technology, but what about
the rumored i20 N? It was supposed to arrive with enough grunt to challenge the
likes of the small hot hatchbacks such as the VW Polo GTI, Renault Clio RS and
Ford Fiesta ST. We have no idea whether Hyundai’s N division has scrapped the
project, but if they didn’t, then it could look similar to XTomi’s rendering.
Slotting under the compact i30 N, the
subcompact hatch was envisioned with a redesigned front bumper that houses
larger side air intakes, bigger lower grille and an apron with red accents. It
also wears bulkier side skirts, bigger bumper at the back and black roof and
pillars that contrast the light blue paint finish covering the rest of the
exterior. The wheels have been swapped with new ones and we can also see the
red brake calipers with ‘N’ badging hugging the discs.
The rumore i20 N would also get a tweaked
chassis for improved handling and a potent engine that would allow it to go
head to head with its rivals. If we had to guess, a 1.6-liter turbo’d unit is
possible, making around 200 horsepower, although some have claimed that it
could push out as much as 250 HP. We wouldn’t be so sure about the latter, as
it would cannibalize the larger and heavier i30 N, which comes with 246 HP in
standard form. If you desire as much oomph as possible from a small hatch, then
the Toyota’s GR Yaris is the one to gun for, as it gets a massive (for the
class) 268 HP and all-wheel drive.
