Hyundai i20 N 2022: arrives in Australia to take on the Fiesta ST

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The Hyundai i20 N hot hatch has finally arrived in Australia, promising ferocious lightweight performance matched with a price that starts from $32,490 before on-road costs.

Offered in a single grade, the i20 N is the most affordable addition to the Hyundai N performance brand to date and arrives alongside the Kona N small SUV.

The Korean pocket rocket will take on proven rivals such as the Ford Fiesta ST and the Volkswagen Polo GTI which are both set to receive an update next year.

Engine and performance parts

The i20 N is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol-engine which produces a sprightly 150kW of power and 275Nm of torque. 

Power is sent through a mechanical limited-slip differential to a six speed manual transmission driving the front wheels. 

The engine also features an active variable exhaust as well as rev-matching and launch control for optimal acceleration off the line. 

Six drive modes are offered, including two which are completely customizable so that drivers can alter engine response, exhaust noise, stability control and rev matching. 

While the i20 N won’t have any troubles getting up to speed, stopping the car is just as important. Hyundai have fitted 320mm front rotors to the hot hatch which are 40mm bigger than the standard i20 sold in Europe. 

The big brakes are covered by 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tyres measuring 215/40R18. 

Hyundai engineers have also fitted the i20 Ns with the option to download ‘track maps’ which automatically recognises when the car is being driven on track and can start the timer automatically. 

Interior 

One of the main highlights of the interior is the 10.25-inch navigation and infotainment screen that sits in the centre of the dash. From here, drivers can access bluetooth capabilities as well as wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The cabin is also fitted with a 10.25-inch driver display which is located in the driver cluster. 

The front bucket seats are wrapped in cloth that feature pronounced bolstering for driver and passenger waists and thighs. 

Wireless charging, smart key with push button start and an eight-speaker Bose sound system are all standard fitment on the i20 N. 

Safety 

While the  i20 N is yet to be officially rated by ANCAP, the Korean hot hatch has an array of safety features installed as standard.

In addition to six airbags, the i20 N features forward collision assistance, blind spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane keep assist, lane follow assist, high beam assist, driver attention warning, intelligent speed limit assist and rear occupant alert. 

Options, extras, warranty and servicing 

While all the important performance parts come fitted as standard, buyers wanting a sharper look for their i20 N can option a  two-tone roof for $1000 and premium paint for $495.

The i20 N comes with a five year, unlimited kilometre warranty along with five years of capped price servicing, which is $390 per year for the first five years as part of the Hyundai lifetime service plan. 

Hyundai i20 N 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• i20 N manual: $32,490