Hyundai i20 N Line: The Indian car buyers are warming up to performance-focussed vehicles and Hyundai seems to have taken notice of that with its all-new i20 N Line, a firecracker launched in the Indian market.
Derived from the best-selling i20 premium hatchback, the new N Line model provides the basis for an even more dynamic driving experience – without sacrificing real-world usability.
It’s not a full-fat hot hatch in the vain of what’s available on other international markets, but rather it offers a blend of performance and practicality.
Introduced as a part of Hyundai’s global N performance division, the i20 N Line adds aggressive styling changes, a punchier engine and re-tuned suspension to attract younger customers and driving enthusiasts who seek more than just a basic hatchback.
Exterior: Sporty and Sleek
Just one glance of the i20 N Line tells you that this isn’t your average hatchback. Hyundai has incorporated a number of distinctive touches to differentiate it from its standard i20 counterpart.
It has an energetic look, with a chequered flag-inspired front grille, sporty bumpers, and red highlights running along the body.
It also receives N Line badging, a set of dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels, twin-tip exhausts and a rear spoiler — all of which help enhance its visual appeal.
The result is a car that looks like it’s accelerating even when it’s at rest, a reason many style-conscious buyers are attracted to it.
Interior and Features
Inside, the i20 N Line receives some significant changes over the standard model.
On the inside, there’s an all-black treatment with red stitching, N-branded seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.
On the features front; expects to borrow the feature list from the top-end variants of i20 such as:
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay)
Digital instrument cluster
Wireless charging
Ambient lighting
Cruise control
Sunroof
A half dozen (argent) airbags (on higher truck trims)
The floor plan is still plenty of room for a family of 3 to spread out with leg and head room to spare.
The boot of 311 litres is useful for both everyday and weekends away.
Engine and Performance
The i20 N Line gets that 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine making 120 PS and 172 Nm.
This engine comes paired with either a 6-speed iMT (clutchless manual) or 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch automatic).
For the N Line, Hyundai has revised the suspension and steering systems for improved handling and response.
The steering is also heavier than the standard i20 and give you better control at high speeds.
The suspension is firmer as well, which should aid in cornering, but may feel a tad stiffer on broken roads.
For people who love driving but aren’t prepared to go the whole hog with high-maintenance performance cars, the i20 N Line is a tantalising middle ground.
Safety
Hyundai has provided the N Line with:
Six airbags (top variants)
ESC and hill assist control
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System)
ABS with EBD
Dynamic guidelines for the rear camera
The i20 has already forged a reasonable safety name in other markets, and the N Line continues that form with the same body structure and build know-how.
Pros of Hyundai i20 N Line
Sport-like design with eye-catching details
Punchy and refined turbo-petrol engine
Suspension and steering have been re-tuned to further improve driving dynamics
Nice tech and comfort features in a very nice interior
Comes with iMT and DCT transmissions
Convenient for daily life and travel use
Cons of Hyundai i20 N Line
No manual gearbox option
Some buyers may find stiffer ride uncomfortable
Slight turbo lag seen in low speeds.
Expensive – priced at a premium over regular i20
Not a true hot hatch (it’s definitely on the warm side).
Hyundai i20 N Line: Verdict
What the Hyundai i20 N Line represents, is a brave leap towards making performance-focused hatchbacks acceptable in the Indian mainstream.
It’s chic, fun to drive and packed with equipment. It’s not a track weapon, but it injects just enough excitement to liven up the dullness of everyday driving.
For someone looking for a practical car with a dash of sporty style — without sacrificing comfort or economy — the i20 N Line hammers the perfect nail.