South Korean carmaker Hyundai is planning to launch the performance N Line cars in the Indian market. The ‘N Line’ is similar to ‘AMG’ division of Mercedes-Benz and the N Line cars are higher performance cars based on their standard production models. Hyundai plans to target the young car buyer’s through the N Line products and it is also speculated that the N Line performance products will be sold through a different sales channel.
The N Line cars feature performance tweaks as well as visual frills such as sporty bumpers, side skirts, spoiler, painted brake calipers, badges, decals, etc. The engine will also be different from the standard car, tweaked to produce more power and torque.
The N performance brand includes models like the i30 N Line, i30 Fastback N Line, i30 Veloster N, Tuscon N Line. The engines on these cars are specifically developed to be used on them and have a lot of performance enhancements. Hyundai is speculated to bring the N Line version of the new-generation i20 in India, which is quite a popular car. The model is likely to get a generation update and this could be a good opportunity for the brand to introduce the N Line performance version of the i20. Also, rumours are that Hyundai is working on the N Line versions of the Creta and Kona.
The N Line performance variant is expected to be showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. Lately, brands have been introducing turbo-petrol engines here for the Indian market. While the engines are downsized, turbocharging has resulted in much more thrilling performance than a higher capacity naturally-aspirated motor. If the new-gen i20 is launched in the N Line, it will rival the likes of Volkswagen Polo GT and also possibly the upcoming Tata Altroz which will get a JTP variant.