Hyundai i20 N Line vs Maruti Suzuki Fronx: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 11-12 Lakh for Performance Enthusiasts
What are some of the best performance cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we take a look at the Hyundai i20 N Line and Maruti Suzuki Fronx, and find out why they appeal to performance enthusiasts.
In this article, we will share
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- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Hyundai i20 N Line and Maruti Suzuki Fronx – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
Performance enthusiasts crave cars that transcend ordinary driving experiences, prioritizing exceptional engine responsiveness, robust power delivery, and minimal turbo lag. High-speed stability, reduced body roll, and agile handling are key to thrilling but controlled drives.
They value precise transmission systems and innovative tech in power steering and suspension for unparalleled road command. A muscular engine with impressive torque and acceleration figures in fast cars significantly influences their choice, ensuring every drive is adrenaline-fueled.
Furthermore, superior quality in material, fit, and finish reflects the car’s calibre, mirroring the driver’s passion for excellence.
Why Hyundai i20 N Line and Maruti Suzuki Fronx are Popular
The Hyundai i20 N Line and Maruti Suzuki Fronx stand out in the performance segment for several compelling reasons.
The i20 N Line elevates driving dynamics with its sporty N Line additions. Its 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine offers an exhilarating drive, complemented by a sophisticated design and superior Bose audio system, appeasing enthusiasts who value style and substance.
On the other hand, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx captures attention with its peppy 1.0-liter turbo petrol unit, delivering exciting performance without compromising on fuel efficiency — a rare blend in the performance category.
With its smooth transmission, light clutch, and agile handling, the Fronx offers an engaging driving experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. Its stylish design, marked by sleek headlights and a modern dashboard, coupled with the reliability Maruti Suzuki is known for, adds to its allure.
Both these quick car models boast high-speed stability and minimal body roll, crucial for enthusiasts who often push their vehicles to the limit. Additionally, their impressive power-to-weight ratios and quick engine responsiveness make them ideal for those seeking spirited driving experiences.
Hyundai i20 N Line and Maruti Suzuki Fronx Variants Shortlist in Rs 11-12 Lakh Range
For Maruti Suzuki Fronx, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 12 October 2023 |
|---|---|
| Alpha Turbo DT | ₹11,63,000 |
For Hyundai i20 N Line, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 12 October 2023 |
|---|---|
| N8 iMT | ₹11,21,000 |
| N8 iMT Dual Tone | ₹11,36,000 |
Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo DT
Priced at INR 11,63,000, the Fronx Alpha Turbo DT offers a balanced combination of performance and agility. Its 998 cc engine is not the largest but provides a peppy drive with 98.69 BHP and minimal turbo lag.
The linear power delivery and quick engine responsiveness make it a preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking immediate throttle reactions. However, it lacks some advanced tech features found in competitors. If you’re a tech-savvy car buyer, you can read our comparison of the Fronx with Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet.
Hyundai i20 N Line N8 iMT
The i20 N Line N8 iMT variant, available for INR 11,21,000, stands out with its 118.41 BHP engine despite having a lower displacement of 998 cc. Its peaky power delivery is characteristic of performance-oriented vehicles, offering a more adrenaline-filled driving experience.
The 6-speed iMT is innovative, providing the comfort of automatic gear changes without losing the hands-on control enthusiasts love. We have also compared the i20 N Line with Hyundai Venue N Line for performance enthusiasts.
Hyundai i20 N Line N8 iMT Dual Tone
This variant, priced at INR 11,36,000, offers identical mechanicals to the N8 iMT but includes aesthetic enhancements like a dual-tone exterior. It shares the same performance characteristics, such as high-speed stability and agility, but with added style.
For those who want their car to look as dynamic as it drives, this variant is suitable. If you’re a style-consciou buyer, you can read our comparison of the i20 N Line with Hyundai i20.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Hyundai i20 N Line and Maruti Suzuki Fronx for Performance Enthusiasts
The Hyundai i20 N Line N8 iMT emerges as the best variant for performance enthusiasts. Despite its three-cylinder configuration, the turbocharged 998 cc engine punches above its weight, delivering a robust 118.41 BHP and 172 Nm of torque.
What sets it apart is the innovative iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission). This system offers the direct engagement and control of a manual gearbox with the convenience of a clutch-free operation, a perfect blend for those who love driving.
Its peaky power delivery offers a surge of power that enthusiasts crave, especially when overtaking or driving on highways. Additionally, its agility, minimal body roll, and stable high-speed dynamics make it thrilling yet safe to drive aggressively.
Though both cars offer commendable performance attributes, the i20 N Line N8 iMT’s balance of power, innovative transmission, and sporty aesthetic enhancements like the glossy alloy wheels and bold body lines edge it ahead for the performance aficionado.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Hyundai i20 N Line N8 iMT
- Hyundai i20 N Line N8 iMT Dual Tone
- Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo DT
| Attribute | i20 N Line N8 iMT | i20 N Line N8 iMT Dual Tone | Fronx Alpha Turbo DT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine – power (BHP) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Turbo lag | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
| High-Speed Stability | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission – # of gears | 6 | 6 | 5 |
| Engine responsiveness | Quick | Quick | Quick |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Hyundai i20 N Line N8 iMT tops the list with its blend of performance, innovative iMT, and value for money.
- The Dual Tone variant, while mechanically identical, adds aesthetic appeal for those wanting a more distinctive look.
- The Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo DT, though slightly behind in raw power and gear count, offers a linear power delivery and reliable performance that Maruti Suzuki cars are renowned for.
These choices reflect not just the need for speed and power, but also a desire for a car that responds instantly and predictably, characteristics evident in these variants. The choice ultimately hinges on individual preferences in transmission type, brand loyalty, and design aesthetics.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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