Hyundai presents prototype i20 N in winter testing

MANILA: On May 6, Hyundai Motor has revealed two videos showing the winter testing of the high-performance prototypes, which include the all-new i20 N model in camouflage. Video shoots have been made in a snowy landscape at Arjeplog, Sweden with Thierry Neuville, a Hyundai WRC driver, behind the wheel of the i20 N, the RM19, and i20 WRC. This area is a well-known testing site for automobile manufacturers.

The first video can be viewed here, while the second one can be seen here. Aside from these, a few images of the all-new i20N have also been unveiled.

The first video displays the handling of the i20 WRC rally car through snow-covered woods and around extreme road curves to meet its real obstacle—a frozen lake. The only sound comes from the engine since the car is driven through the tundra on one cold but clear day.

The scene cuts into the RM19, sliding down the road sideways and causing a snow plume in its path. Neuville is seen pedal pumping in an interior shot and skillfully maneuvering the model referred to as the "rolling lab" of Hyundai. The car bypasses the snow with sweeping curves.

The scene cuts again, and at this point, the all-new i20 N is in view, lined with camouflage over the front and back. Only snippets of its features are seen as it is driven through the snow.

Neuville gives a commentary on the second video with additional shots of the all-new Hyundai i20 N model. He explained how to drive each model and detailed the specific characteristics of the vehicle from his viewpoint. Neuville also evaluated the all-new i20 N model through combined driving with the Hyundai RM19 and Hyundai i20 WRC and stated that it's one precise and exciting car that can be easily handled. The engine revs up efficiently, and the noise produced is also unique.

He also adds that the i20 WRC is something that can be pushed to its limits and all of its details have been fine-tuned to obtain the highest performance and can quickly adapt to a specific driving style.

Hyundai typically tests its cars in harsh environments to ensure that its vehicles are capable of performing in adverse weather conditions. From scorching summer heat to snowy winter roads, automobiles must be capable of functioning in every type of climate.

Racing cars designed for motorsport activities become an inspiration for the N model range, the high-performance production- car lineup of Hyundai with racetrack capabilities.

Due to the success of the i30 N and i30 Fastback N, Hyundai is designing the high-performance prototype of the newest European edition—-the all-new i20 N. Like other N variants, the i20 N can be driven on a racetrack and is also street legal.

Hyundai Motorsport is also developing new technologies on a range of high-performance concept vehicles, known as Racing Midship or the RM, aside from its racing production models. The RM serves as a testing ground or moving laboratory for testing and developing new concepts. The latest model, the RM19, includes a 390 PS, a large rear spoiler, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged rear-axle-mounted engine.

Hyundai has also made a venture into touring, in addition to rallying. Hyundai was able to compete for the first time with the i30 N TCR in 2017. Since then, Hyundai has produced two successor touring cars, namely, the all-electric Veloster N ECTR and the Veloster N TCR.

Photos from Hyundai

Also read: Hyundai teases the i20N, the hot hatch to make around 200 PS, 3 videos highlight all-new Hyundai i20 features