The i20 N Line is a sporty, fun-to-drive hatch that’s also spacious and feature-loaded. We tell you why it makes for a good used buy.
GOOD FOR: Driving dynamics, Practicality
LOOK OUR FOR: DCT overheating, brake, tyre wear
The i20 N Line is one of the very few sporty hatches on sale, and it stands out for its engaging driving manners coupled with a roomy and practical cabin. This makes it appealing to enthusiasts who seek everyday practicality. Here’s what you need to consider while looking for a used one.
Over the standard i20, which is already a striking car, the N Line boasts of a sportier body kit with different bumpers and grille, diamond-cut alloys, red accents and twin exhaust ports. Similarly, on the inside, the N Line gets an all-black upholstery with red contrasting accents and stitching, metal pedals, N logos on the seats, N-specific gear lever and an N steering wheel, which feels great to hold.
Hyundai i20 N Line powertrain options
When the i20 N Line was launched in 2021, its 120hp, 172Nm, 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine came mated to either a 6-speed iMT clutchless manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) with paddle shifters for more driver engagement. However, the lack of a proper manual with three pedals was a missed opportunity. Thankfully, Hyundai introduced a proper manual gearbox option when it rolled out the model’s facelift in September 2023.
In terms of performance, the DCT made the 0-100kph sprint in 11.3 seconds, while the iMT was marginally quicker in our tests, with a time of 11.21 seconds. Hyundai even made a few notable mechanical updates that set it apart from the regular i20. The N Line gets a sportier exhaust note, the suspension has been tweaked for a sportier setup and better handling, and Hyundai also tweaked the steering feel. A significant upgrade was the inclusion of rear disc brakes for better stopping power – the standard i20 gets discs only at the front.
It’s worth opting for the DCT as it’s smooth, convenient and a well-sorted gearbox in most scenarios. The iMT, however, is neither as engaging as a manual nor as convenient as the DCT auto. Opt for the iMT only if you get a good deal and don’t mind living with it.
Hyundai i20 N Line variants and features
Only two trims are available to choose from – N6 and N8 – with the former only available with the iMT. As for features, the N6 is pretty well kitted with an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, a sunroof, 16-inch alloys, leatherette upholstery, cruise control, rear camera, TPMS, two airbags and ESP. On top of this, the N8 adds a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen (though it misses wireless integration), a Bose audio system, auto LED headlamps, a wireless phone charger, auto climate control, Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car tech and six airbags.
Sporty black theme is offset by red details; N steering looks and feels great.
The N6 actually represents good value, and you get most of the features you’d need, but the caveat is that it’s only available with the iMT. The N8, with all the extra goodies like the larger touchscreen, LED lights and better audio system, is available with two gearboxes.
The N Line comes with Hyundai’s 3-year/1,00,000km standard warranty, and there was even an extended package on offer, so it’s likely that the car you’re looking at is still covered under warranty. Furthermore, what should give you more peace of mind is Hyundai’s widespread service network and the fact that spares are readily available.
What to look out for in a used Hyundai i20 N Line?
DCT overheating
When driven in jam-packed traffic for an extended period, Hyundai models with the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and DCT combination are known to throw up a gearbox overheating warning in the cluster. If you are looking at a DCT, make sure that the gearbox doesn’t feel jerky or throw up the warning often. This isn’t a big issue on its own and can be alleviated by adopting the good practice of shifting to neutral when the car is stationary for a long time.
Brake, tyre wear
As the N Line is a sporty hatch, there’s a high chance that the previous owner would’ve driven the car in an enthusiastic manner. Hence, it’s best to check the condition of consumable parts like the brake pads, brake discs and all the tyres before making the purchase.
Fuel pump
A few owners have faced issues with the fuel pump, so check that the car starts without any hesitation, as this is a potential sign of a fuel pump issue. Direct injection engines need good-quality fuel, so it could be bad fuel that’s causing these problems.
Also worth knowing
Some owners tend to modify their N Line, but it’s always advisable to go for one that is in stock condition, as it’ll be more reliable and covered by the manufacturer’s warranty if that’s still valid. It’s also worth checking out the infotainment system, as there have been reports of glitches.
Second hand Hyundai i20 N Line price, resale value
Rs 8 lakh- 10 lakh
Twin exhaust tips, red details and these alloys are unique to the i20 N Line.
There are plenty of used, pre-facelift i20 N Lines in the market, and the demand isn’t high, so there is scope to negotiate. Look to spend anywhere between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, depending on the mileage and variant you opt for.
Also see:
Hyundai i20 N Line MT review: N-gaging enough?
