Hot hatches are dead, so why did Hyundai just reveal the Hyundai i20 N? We’re exaggerating a bit because there is the Ford Focus ST, Civic Type R, and VW Polo GTI. But they’re few and far between. Why? Small, lightweight, sticks like on rails in corners, what’s not to love? The hot hatch is still hot.

This i20 N hot hatch is featured in “Performance Blue” paint

You know you’re looking at something different with its black top, Performance Blue paint, and wisps of bright red. Power comes from a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an intercooler and “special” water pump. That pumps out 204 hp and 202 lb-ft of torque. For a car weighing about 2,600 lbs, this should make the 2021 Hyundai i20 N a rocket. Hyundai has not revealed the specs for the i20 but we expect 0-60 times under seven seconds. 

Buyers get their choice of either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Hyundai says the manual’s clutch has been beefed up from previous versions. In the rear is a mechanical limited-slip differential. Rev-Matching is available at the touch of a button on the steering wheel. 

There is rev-matching and also a variety of modes with the i20 N

Along with the rev-match feature is launch control. Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, N, and N Custom. With the N Custom mode, there is a gang of settings like engine response, sound, steering, ESP, and the aforementioned rev-matching. So there are lots of options to tailor the car to your specialized tastes with the ability to mix things up.

Hyundai says that the standard i20 chassis has been tuned and also reinforced for better handling and also drivability. New joints, springs, and shocks are all part of the N tuning enhancements. High-performance brakes are part of the N deal with 12.6-inch front brakes. 

That Performance Blue paint pops against the 18-inch wheels

That Performance Blue paint pops against the 18-inch wheels. An added air intake can be found in the fascia with a separate grille sporting an N logo. For those that know the N confirms the package. The roof spoiler runs the entire width of the top for some added visual Pow. 

The taillights are unique to the N and there is also a unique rear bumper with a diffuser. Tucked into the diffuser is a triangular fog light. Those side skirts are enhanced with the bright red stripes, but you can get the i20 N with seven colors. 

The interior features body-color accents with plenty of competition bits

This 2021 Hyundai i20 N features a black interior with matching Performance Blue accents. It also features sport seats, integrated headrests, a sports steering wheel, competition metal pedals, a unique instrument cluster, and a special shifter knob. 

In all, it is a great-looking package and should give the GTI and Focus ST a run for their money. It might also tip the scales toward more hot hatch creations from some of the more reluctant manufacturers out there. The i20 N looks like fun and we’ll bet it drives like it too.