Hyundai N Line range of cars announced for India
Our Asst. Editor wrote an open letter to Hyundai some time ago, and it seems like the top execs at Hyundai are finally looking to quench the enthusiast’s thirst. Well, somewhat. We woke up to a Monday morning miracle when Hyundai made it official about finally bringing its Hyundai N Line range of cars to India. Mind you, this is the N Line, not the absolutely maddening N. Why did we emphasize on that last bit?
The N division is Hyundai’s equivalent to the likes of BMW’s M and Mercedes-Benz’ AMG. The N Line, however, may not be as performance-focused as the N range, but rather focuses on sporty styling bits and minor tweaks to the engine and suspension. So yes, the N Line does deliver at least some thrills and it is indeed a start.
While we cannot confirm which model will kick off Hyundai’s N Line innings in India, we do know that Hyundai will introduce its first N Line model later in 2021. The rumours seem to suggest the i20 N Line coming in first, but we’ll get there in a bit. The Hyundai N Line models will receive cosmetic tweaks, slightly altered interiors along with additional equipment, and maybe (but just maybe) extra power and a tweaked suspension setup for improved handling. Undoubtedly, the N Line models will be priced higher than their regular counterparts.
Managing Director and CEO of Hyundai India, Mr S.S Kim said, “As the country’s leading smart mobility solutions provider, Hyundai has been redefining the mobility landscape with products that take customer aspirations to new heights. The introduction of our N Line range to India, will induce sporty experiences like never before, making every drive a fun experience with products that personify excitement and athleticism. As an organization committed to India, Hyundai has been introducing superior products and services for customers. We have surpassed customer expectations and assumed leadership across various segments by winning the hearts and minds of our most valued customers. With N Line, Hyundai Motor India will continue to challenge new boundaries and introduce new cars that amplify the aspirations and personalities of new age Millennial and Gen Z buyers.”
The i20 N Line sold internationally gets a 1-litre turbo petrol putting out 118bhp which gains an extra 29Nm of torque at 200Nm over its regular counterpart that produces 171Nm of torque. Meanwhile the 1.2-litre MPi petrol stands at 82bhp and 117Nm of torque, which is an extra 1bhp and 3Nm more than the regular i20.
Hyundai has somewhat heard the prayers of us enthusiasts with the announcement of the N Line, and this could very well be the first step to further bring in the full-blown N range to India as well. With Mercedes-Benz and BMW assembling their AMG and M lineup of cars in India respectively, we shouldn’t be surprised to see Hyundai follow the same route and democratise the performance car. Click here to find out our take on the Hyundai Alcazar, and follow our social media handles to keep up with the #ThrillOfDriving.
Who would’ve thought Monday morning miracles would be a thing?!