Hey car enthusiasts and prospective buyers! Welcome back to our blog. When it comes to buying a new car in India, we know you have a lot on your mind. Is it within your budget? How safe is it for your family? What will the monthly maintenance cost look like? Does it come with all the latest features you desire? And, crucially, how good is the company’s after-sales service? These are all excellent questions, and today, we’re going to help you answer many of them as we take a deep dive into one of the most exciting premium hatchbacks on the market: the new Hyundai i20 N-Line.
The Hyundai i20 N-Line isn't just another variant; it's designed to add a dash of sportiness and thrill to the already popular i20. So, let’s explore if this sporty hatchback is the right fit for your garage.
Main Highlights of the Hyundai i20 N-Line
Engine Specifications
The heart of the i20 N-Line is its peppy turbo petrol engine, promising a fun-to-drive experience.
- Engine Type: 1.0L Turbo GDi Petrol
- Displacement: 998 cc
- Max Power: 120 PS (at 6000 rpm)
- Max Torque: 172 Nm (at 1500-4000 rpm)
- Fuel Efficiency (ARAI):
- 6-speed Manual: Approx. 20.0 km/l
- 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission): Approx. 20.25 km/l
Design Overview: Sporty from Every Angle
The i20 N-Line truly stands out with its distinctive styling cues.
Exterior Design
- Sporty Grille: A unique checkered flag inspired grille with N-Line badging.
- Red Accents: Striking red inserts on the front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser.
- Twin Tip Exhaust: A more aggressive twin-tip muffler that not only looks good but sounds sporty too.
- Diamond Cut Alloys: Stylish 16-inch alloy wheels with red front brake calipers.
- Integrated Spoiler: A prominent rear spoiler with side wings.
Interior Design
- All-Black Cabin: A sporty all-black interior theme.
- Red Stitching: Contrast red stitching on the seats, gear knob, and steering wheel.
- N-Line Specifics: N-branded leatherette gear knob and steering wheel, and metal pedals.
- Comfortable Seating: Well-bolstered seats offer good support, especially during spirited driving.
Key Features
Hyundai has loaded the i20 N-Line with a host of segment-leading features, making it a truly modern package.
- Infotainment Screen: Large 10.25-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system.
- Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car technology with over 58 features.
- Sunroof: Electric sunroof for that airy feel.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless phone charger.
- Climate Control: Automatic climate control.
- Surround View Monitor: 360-degree camera for easier parking (available on top variants).
- Bose Premium Sound System: For an immersive audio experience.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: Fully digital instrument cluster.
- Cruise Control: For relaxed highway driving.
What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai i20 N-Line?
- The Hyundai i20 N-Line offers a ground clearance of approximately 170 mm. This is generally sufficient for Indian road conditions, helping it clear most speed breakers and potholes.
What is the Boot Space of Hyundai i20 N-Line?
- The boot space available in the Hyundai i20 N-Line is around 311 litres. This is decent for a hatchback and can accommodate weekend luggage for a small family.
What are the Dimensions of Hyundai i20 N-Line?
- Length: Approximately 3995 mm
- Width: Approximately 1775 mm
- Height: Approximately 1505 mm
- Wheelbase: Approximately 2580 mm
Powertrain Options
Unlike its standard sibling, the i20 N-Line keeps it simple with just one powerful engine option but two transmission choices.
- Engine: 1.0L Turbo GDi Petrol
- Transmission:
- 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) - Clutch-less manual
- 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) - Automatic
Safety Features
Hyundai has equipped the i20 N-Line with a robust set of safety features to ensure occupant protection.
- Airbags: Up to 6 airbags (Dual front, side, and curtain airbags)
- ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution
- ESC: Electronic Stability Control
- HAC: Hill Assist Control
- VDM: Vehicle Stability Management
- All 4 Disc Brakes: For superior stopping power.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): For optimal tyre health and safety.
- Rear Parking Sensors and Camera: For easy maneuvering in tight spots.
NCAP Rating Table
Understanding a car’s safety rating is crucial for prospective buyers.
Rating Agency |
Model Tested |
Adult Occupant Protection |
Child Occupant Protection |
Notes |
Global NCAP |
Hyundai i20 (Standard Indian Spec) |
3 Stars |
3 Stars |
Tested under older Global NCAP protocols. The N-Line shares its platform with the standard i20. |
Bharat NCAP |
Hyundai i20 N-Line |
Not Yet Rated |
Not Yet Rated |
Bharat NCAP is a relatively new program. The i20 N-Line has not been specifically tested by Bharat NCAP as of our last update. |
Rivals of Hyundai i20 N-Line
In the Indian market, the Hyundai i20 N-Line primarily competes with other performance-oriented hatchbacks and premium hatchbacks:
- Tata Altroz iTurbo: Its direct rival with a similar sporty positioning.
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno (though not a direct performance rival, it’s a segment competitor)
- Toyota Glanza (rebadged Baleno)
How is the Car? Pros & Cons
Let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of owning the Hyundai i20 N-Line.
Pros
- Punchy Performance: The 1.0L Turbo GDi engine offers exhilarating performance, especially with the 7-speed DCT.
- Sporty Design: The N-Line specific styling, inside and out, gives it a truly distinct and attractive look.
- Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with premium features like the large touchscreen, sunroof, BlueLink, and a Bose sound system.
- Engaging Handling: Stiffer suspension and revised steering offer a more connected and engaging driving experience compared to the standard i20.
- All-Disc Brakes: Enhanced braking performance with disc brakes on all four wheels.
- Transmission Options: Choice of a convenient DCT automatic or the unique iMT for a clutch-less manual feel.
Cons
- Premium Pricing: The N-Line variants are priced significantly higher than the standard i20, making it less accessible for some budgets.
- Firm Ride Quality: The sportier suspension setup can feel a bit stiff over broken roads, especially at low speeds.
- Fuel Efficiency: While decent for a turbo petrol, real-world mileage might drop if you drive spiritedly.
- Only One Engine Option: While powerful, the lack of a naturally aspirated petrol or diesel option limits choice for some buyers.
- Rear Seat Space: While adequate, it's not the most spacious in the segment for three adults in the rear.
Conclusion: Is the Hyundai i20 N-Line for You?
The Hyundai i20 N-Line is undoubtedly a compelling package for those who want more than just a regular hatchback. It offers a fantastic blend of sporty aesthetics, a powerful and refined turbo-petrol engine, and a cabin brimming with modern features. If you’re someone who appreciates a car with a strong personality, enjoys spirited driving, and prioritizes advanced features, the i20 N-Line should definitely be on your shortlist.
While its premium price tag and slightly firm ride might be points to consider, the overall driving experience and the exclusive N-Line appeal make it a strong contender in the premium hatchback segment. It’s a car that truly stands out from the crowd and brings a bit of racetrack flair to your everyday commute. We highly recommend taking it for a test drive to feel the difference yourself. Happy car hunting!