All-New Hyundai i20 Rendered as N-Rated Hot Hatch

The second generation of the Hyundai i20 is believed to be among the first Korean models to venture into the dangerous hot hatch territory using the new N performance badge.

Jürgen Grimm, Hyundai Motor Europe’s head of powertrains, hinted that a street version of their WRC racecar is currently being considered and could be ready within the year. The same executive said the i20 N would use the same turbocharged 1.6-liter engine as the Hyundai Veloster Turbo and the Kia pro_cee'd GT, but with more power.

Yes, you heard right, more power in a smaller car. As much as 250 hp is possible. However, we'd be very happy with just 220 or 230, not only because that much power implies monumental torque steer, but also because it doesn't need that much.

Most of the i20 N's competitors have around 200 hp. A Ford Fiesta ST feels just fine with a 182 hp output, while Audi's overpowered S1 uses all-wheel drive to deal with its 2-liter turbo engine effectively.

But we're not just going to talk about what the i20 N might be like to drive, because we can actually show you what it might look like. This rendering is made by RM.Design and uses styling cues from a Brazilian concept car recently revealed in Sao Paulo. The photo shows beefier arches, revised headlights and silver side skits for the Korean supermini.

The interesting thing is that the I20 N might look even better than this, since it may come as a coupe. Hyundai has already teased a 3-door version of its B-segment contender that we think is even better suited to challenging the SEAT Ibiza Cupra or Peugeot 208 GTI.