Hyundai readying a sportier version of i20

Hyundai  is not ideally the first brand that you think of when you hear sporty. The i20 with the 1.2-litre petrol engine isn't particularly exciting, and though the tractable 1.4-litre diesel can be fun to an extent, things are about to get a lot more fun. A sportier and more focussed version of the i20 has been spotted testing at the Nurburgring.

• Likely to get the 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol engine.
• Could get a stiffer chassis to complement the additional power.
• Car seen here sits lower, which could hint at a stiffer suspension.
• Looks similar to the standard car.
• No buzz regarding India launch.

When you think of the Hyundai i20, your mind takes you to a comfortable and premium hatchback. But is it fun to drive? Not really. While the 1.4-litre diesel engine does offer you some thrills, its 1.2-litre petrol engine isn’t particularly exciting.

Now imagine a Hyundai i20 that can zip past 200kmph, has a raspy exhaust note and turns with precision. All that could soon be true, as it appears that Hyundai is prepping a go-fast i20. Spotted on test at the iconic Nurburgring, the i20 testmule sure doesn’t look like a commuter-class hatchback!

Under The Hood

Hyundai could choose a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine for the i20 N. This engine makes as much as 201PS in the Kia Ceed GT, which sounds mouthwatering. Paired with a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, we expect Hyundai to follow in the steps of the Kia. And its 201PS shouldn't disappoint, considering that the 1.2-litre Kappa motor on the standard car produces a paltry 83PS.

Any Skin Deep Changes?

The test mule seen had flared wheel arches, which hint at the possibility of wider tracks at the front and rear to aid stability and handling. Hyundai might also stiffen up the chassis and springs to make the i20 sharper through the bends. Look closely and you’ll find the i20 N wearing disc brakes all around for better stopping power.

Does It Look Special?

Not at the moment. The mule does have bigger wheels wrapped with fatter tyres and a cutout in the rear bumper to accommodate the twin exhausts. But we expect the production-spec version to look substantially different.

Expected Launch?

The Hyundai i20 N is likely to be launched globally by next year. Sadly, it’s too early to be talking about an Indian launch.

The Volkswagen Polo GTi and Ford Fiesta ST better watch out for this one. Granted, these tiny track scorchers have more pedigree and fan following, but the i20 N seems to be packing enough firepower to give them a serious run for their money.

Source

(Source: ZigWheels.com)