Hyundai preparing 250-horsepower hot hatch

Hyundai has confirmed it is in the early stages of developing a more powerful version of the new i20 subcompact hatchback that bowed in Paris earlier this week.

Called i20 N, the hot hatch will be powered by an evolution of the 1.6-liter direct-injected turbo four found under the hood of the Veloster Turbo but its output will be bumped to at least 250 horsepower. What transmission the i20 N will be fitted with and whether it will feature front- or all-wheel drive is up in the air.

Australian website Motoring reports Hyundai will use knowledge gleaned from its WRC program to completely re-engineer the i20′s chassis in order to help it cope with the extra power. A sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes on all four corners will keep the cavalry in check.

As expected, the i20 N will look considerably more aggressive than its more humble sibling. Hyundai has not revealed if the N will be based on the four-door model or the sportier two-door coupe that will be introduced in the next few months.

The Hyundai i20 N could be shown to the public for the first time at the 2015 edition of the Frankfurt Motor Show. When it lands, it will fight head-to-head against the 220-horsepower Volkswagen Polo R and the Ford Fiesta ST.