2021 Hyundai Elite i20 N Prototype Reviewed by Foreign Journalist on Track

Hyundai i20 is sold in India with the ‘Elite’ suffix. Its third-gen iteration will soon be going on sale in the country. However, Hyundai has also unveiled the N Line version of the hatchback, which will rival the likes of Volkswagen Polo GTi and Ford Focus ST in the international markets. Its arrival to the Indian shores is still a pipe dream. But, how good is it to drive is the question that almost everyone has on their minds. We came across a YouTube video that answers this query. This video was uploaded by Chasing Cars on their channel as they got a chance to spend some time with the late-stage prototype of Hyundai i20 N.

The host claims that this particular prototype gets a free-flow exhaust unit, and it offers the controls for its loudness. Also, the suspension setup of this prototype is the tightest one that he has come across on any generation of the i20. According to the host, it comes shod with Pirelli P-Zero tyres that measure 215/40-R18. These are specially developed for the i20 N.

Also, it gets a limited-slip differential at the front that ensures there’s minimal loss of power when attacking a corner. The host finds that the engine has enough grunt to keep the momentum alive, irrespective of the gear you are in. Well, he likes the brakes and gives his final call by saying that he found the i20 N as a more fun car than the bigger and expensive i30 N.

Since the i20 N is now finally unveiled, we know what powers its wheels. It gets a 1.0L 3-cylinder petrol motor under its hood, which delivers a peak power output of 120 PS and 172 Nm of peak torque. There are two transmission choices on offer – 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT. Also, it comes with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that helps it with improved low-end grunt and mileage. Sadly, Hyundai is not offering the limited-slip differential with the i20 N, which was present on the prototype. In India, Hyundai Elite i20 likely to go on sale by festive season this year.