Looking for a zippy little ride that injects some serious fun into your daily commute? Buckle up, because the 2024 Hyundai i20 N might be your perfect match. This pint-sized powerhouse punches above its weight, offering a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. But is it all sunshine and smiles? Let’s take a closer look.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Punchy Performance: The i20 N packs a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that churns out 201 horsepower. It’s like a shot of espresso for your morning commute.
- Agile Handling: With a sport-tuned suspension and precise steering, the i20 N dances through corners like a salsa champion.
- Playful Personality: It’s not all serious business. The i20 N winks at you with its sporty design cues and pops and crackles from the exhaust.
Cons
- Firm Ride: The sporty suspension setup can be a tad harsh on rough roads.
- Limited Rear Legroom: While the front seats pamper you, the backseat is better suited for your gym bag than your tall friends.
How Much Does it Cost?
The good news is, the 2024 i20 N starts at a very reasonable $34,990 before on-road costs. That puts it right in the sweet spot for a hot hatch in the Australian market.
Features and Benefits
- Sporty Aesthetics: The i20 N flaunts aggressive bumpers, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels. It’s like a puppy with racing stripes.
- Rev-Matching Manual Transmission: The 6-speed manual gearbox encourages heel-and-toe downshifts, making you feel like a rally driver.
- Launch Control: Because every traffic light is a mini drag strip.
- Infotainment Bliss: The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system keeps you connected, and the 8-speaker Bose sound system turns your commute into a concert.
Safety
Hyundai doesn’t skimp on safety:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: It’s like having a guardian angel on your bumper.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Keeps you centered, even when your mind wanders.
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning: No surprises when changing lanes.
Running Costs
While the official fuel figures haven’t been released for the 2024 model yet, expect them to be around the 7.0L/100km mark. That’s pretty decent for a performance car, and should keep running costs in check.
Comparison to Competitors
Let’s size up the i20 N against its rivals:
- Volkswagen Polo GTI: The Polo GTI is more refined but lacks the i20 N’s raw edge.
- Ford Fiesta ST: The Fiesta ST is a hooligan, but the i20 N is the mischievous kid next door.
- Renault Clio RS: The Clio RS is French flair, but the i20 N is Korean spice.
Conclusion
The 2024 Hyundai i20 N is a cracking little hot hatch that offers a thrilling driving experience, surprising practicality, and a whole lot of fun for the price. Sure, the interior isn’t the biggest, and the ride can be a bit firm, but if you’re looking for a car that injects some excitement into your daily drive, the i20 N is definitely worth considering.
Rating: 8.5/10
This hot hatch may be small, but it delivers big on thrills, tech, and value. If you’re after a practical and exciting daily driver, the i20 N is a strong contender.