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Track-ready hatch races into view

Marque’s latest offering matches motorsport-inspired elements with plenty of practical features.
Posted on 03 February, 2022
Track-ready hatch races into view

Hyundai New Zealand has added a new racetrack-capable hot hatchback from the marque’s N Division to its line-up.

The i20 N is powered by a 150kW turbocharged 1.6-litre engine paired with a six-speed manual and mechanical limited-slip differential.

Described by Hyundai as a “corner rascal”, the car is offered in a single grade with hot-hatch high-performance standard, along with numerous safety, connectivity and convenience features.

The marque says a continuously variable valve duration system enables performance to be matched with light-car fuel economy as the i20 N uses 6.9l/100km on the official combined cycle.

Chris Blair, Hyundai NZ’s general manager, says: “We are excited to introduce the i20 N compact hot hatchback, joining its siblings the i30 N and Kona N. i20 N is playful, really fun to drive and quite intuitive to drive as well.”

Motorsport-derived elements of the model include an aerodynamic front bumper design, side skirts and dual-level spoiler.

Beneath the bonnet, the engine features Flat Power tuning, an active variable exhaust, a rev-matching function, plus N Mode and N Grin Control System. 

Meanwhile, a performance brake package is designed to handle extensive on-track punishment.

The i20 N comes with a full body kit including a rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels wrapped in bespoke Pirelli P Zero HN tyres, and bright LED headlights and taillights.

Inside there are sports front bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and alloy sports pedals.

Those additions are joined by a 10.25-inch colour Supervision digital virtual instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch satellite navigation infotainment unit featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bose eight-speaker audio and a DAB+ digital radio.

There’s also a wireless smartphone charging pad, a Smart key with push button start, and climate control air-conditioning.

Safety features include blind-spot collision warning, forward collision-avoidance assist, driver attention warning, lane keeping assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The car is available in seven solid, metallic and mica shades headlined by the signature Performance Blue, with a contrasting roof in Phantom Black.

Pricing starts from $53,990.