Hyundai India has just launched what is technically the third-generation of the i10 hatchback (otherwise considered the second-gen Grand i10 in India). There are more than a few differences between the previous-gen and the new model – which is sold as the Grand i10 Nios here – with one of the major ones being that the international model and India-spec model will have the same wheelbase length.
Another major difference has been identified between the older model and the new-gen i10 – the latter is expected to come with a sporty N Line variant, at least in international markets. Despite wearing a significant amount of camouflage, new spy shots that have surfaced online show a Hyundai i10 with a twin exhaust pipes, a sportier-looking version of Hyundai’s ‘cascading grille’ that is flanked by two additional circular light units, larger air intakes in the front bumper, as well as larger wheels with a sporty-looking a red centre cap and thicker tyres.
Whether the sportier styling will be accompanied by a more powerful engine is yet unknown but Hyundai’s 1.0-litre T-GDI turbo-petrol motor (which puts out 120hp in the India-spec Venue) is a good bet. One can also expect Hyundai’s N performance division to add a sportier suspension setup and more stopping power.
In international markets, the Hyundai i10 N Line will go head-to-head with the likes of the Volkswagen Up! GTI, which comes with a 115hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Interestingly, this 1.0 TSI motor (available in 95hp and 115hp states of tune) is headed to India – a heavily localised version will be found under the bonnet of the India-spec Skoda Kamiq and VW T-Cross and the next-gen VW Vento and Skoda Rapid.
While there is no word on the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios getting this N Line package, the model has potential for the Indian market. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol motor that debuted on the Venue will also be available with the next-gen Hyundai i20 and could possibly find its way to the Nios. If it does arrive in our market, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios N Line will find rivals in the form of the Tata Tiago JTP at the lower-end and the Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS at the higher-end of the budget performance hatchback segment.
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Uday Singh
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Lenny D'sa
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