Hyundai updates sporty i20 N hatch

IF THE $50K ask for a Hyundai i30 N hatch is too rich, but you want to join the “N” brigade, there’s always the nearly as good, slightly smaller Hyundai i20 N five-door hatch.

Recently updated, and priced from $35,500 (up $500), the revised model is available from November and includes Hyundai’s Bluelink connected car system, updated tech features, styling tweaks – including new forged 18-inch alloys and a new-look grille – and other detail changes including funky new matte finish badging.

Under the bonnet remains the same 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering a decent 150kW @ 5500-6000rpm and 275Nm across a wide 1750-4500rpm with 304Nm available from 2000-4000rpm momentarily on overboost.

The drive experience is heightened by the i20 N’s large single exhaust outlet that creates a suitable three mode soundtrack for the motorsport derived hatchback… it was spawned from Hyundai’s World Rally Championship coupe from a few years back.

If you can only manage to drive an automatic, forget the i20 N is it is in six-speed manual only to give drivers more control… and thrills… accentuated by the model’s Torsen (torque sensing) limited slip differential that optimises grip through turns and controls any tendency for torque steer (where the front wheels pull to one side under full acceleration).

The i20 N is the most compact member of Hyundai’s N range that numbers about half a dozen but it punches above its 1110kg weight delivering sharp “driver focused” dynamics and strong performance underlined by a 0-100km/h sprint in 6.2 seconds and combined fuel consumption (using 98RON premium unleaded) of 6.9 litres per 100km.

The model’s motorsport links deliver head-turning looks accentuated this time around with the MY25 variant and its seemingly minor styling tweaks that deliver a more aggressive appearance and sporty stance.

Complementing the mild exterior makeover is a mild interior makeover based around LED interior lighting and a follow through on the new exterior badge theme to the gear knob and in the centre of the leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Allowing drivers to maximise their engagement with the model is a raft of technology updates including the introduction of Hyundai Bluelink connected car services and over-the-air (OTA) software update capability.

Among the tricky stuff accessed through Bluelink is automatic collision notification, emergency call (SOS) function, connected routing with live traffic updates, alert services including geo-fencing, valet, speed and time alerts, remote control of climate and vehicle functions, navigation send to car, voice recognition for POI lookup, vehicle controls and vehicle settings management.

Elsewhere, standard kit includes heated and power folding exterior mirrors, cloth upholstery, sports seats, Bose premium audio, leather clad wheel and gear knob, three mode exhaust, N grin control system with six drive modes, climate control, and extensive ADAS safety features.

Hyundai says the i20 N’s reputation as the ultimate corner rascal remains unchanged, with its light kerb weight, mechanical front differential and standard six-speed manual gearbox combining to deliver unrivalled, driver-focused thrills.

“The updated 2025 Hyundai i20 N is proof that some of the greatest things come in small packages,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia chief executive officer Ted Lee.

"Sometimes a performance car’s recipe is so good that only small tweaks are required, and by boosting the i20 N’s technology and styling, Hyundai has elevated an outstanding and accessible performance package to another level.”

2025 Hyundai i20 N pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.