By: IOL Motoring Staff
While it's not trying to be a hot hatch by any stretch of the imagination, the new Hyundai N-Sport does add a bit of zing to both the styling and performance of Hyundai's i20.
We're not talking major ponies here, but at least Hyundai is backing up the newcomer's sportier design with some extra pep, even if it's only a small amount.
So what do you get?
The familiar 1.4-litre normally aspirated petrol engine has been tweaked to produce 85kW and 160Nm, up from the standard version's 74kW/133Nm. As per the latter, the engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
The N-Sport's technical package includes a new stainless steel free-flow Cat back exhaust system and Hyundai has also lowered and stiffened the suspension to improve road holding. The jury's out on whether stiffer springs are really necessary on an 85kW hatch, but we can't tell you the overall effect on ride quality until we've driven the car.
Besides the lower stance you'll also tell the N-Sport apart by its unique 17-inch alloy wheels wearing low profile rubber, side skirts, front and rear bumper skirts and rear spoiler.
But would you have this over a Fiesta Ecoboost, or Corsa 1.0 Turbo?
HOW MUCH?
i20 1.2 Motion (61kW/115Nm) - R190 500
i20 1.2 Fluid (61kW/115Nm) - R200 500
i20 1.4 Fluid (74kW/113Nm) - R213 500
i20 1.4 Fluid AT (74kW/115Nm) - R223 500
i20 1.4 N-Sport (85kW/160Nm) - R235 500
Prices include a three-year/60 000km service plan and five-year/150 000km warranty.