The Grand i10 Nios is known as a sensible family hatchback. In February 2020 Hyundai added something unexpected: a turbocharged Sportz version with 100 PS. It launched at Rs 7.68 lakh ex showroom and gave the small Nios a real turn of speed. Here is what it offers, what it costs, and whether it was worth the extra money.
What is the Nios Turbo?
It is the Nios with a different engine and a sporty look. The Turbo was sold only in the Sportz trim, with a five speed manual. There was no automatic. It shares its trim level, cabin and equipment with the normal Sportz, plus a few cosmetic changes.
Engine and performance
Engine: 1.0 liter three cylinder turbo petrol (998 cc), the same family used in the Venue and Aura
Power and torque: 100 PS at 6,000 rpm and 172 Nm from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm
Transmission: five speed manual only
Claimed mileage: about 20.3 kmpl
In the Nios, the engine makes 100 PS, which is 20 PS less than in the Venue, but the torque figure is the same. The result is a very light hatchback with plenty of pull. In independent tests, it reached 100 km/h in under ten seconds, which made it one of the quickest mass market hatchbacks in India at the time. The standard 1.2 liter Nios is much slower.
For city driving the Turbo feels relaxed, but it needs to be kept above about 2,000 rpm to feel strong, since low revs are less responsive than a larger engine. The three cylinder engine is smooth for its type but a little thrummy when pushed. The five speed gearbox is smooth, and the clutch is light.
What you see and feel
Exterior: a blacked out grille with a Turbo badge and a second badge on the boot. A dual tone paint option with a black roof was offered for Rs 5,000 more.
Interior: an all black cabin with red accents around the vents and AC controls, plus red stitching on the seats. The gear lever position is the easiest way to tell it is a Turbo, since reverse sits in a different place.
Features: an 8 inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, a digital instrument cluster and a rear camera. Because it is based on the Sportz, it misses features from the top Asta trim such as keyless entry and push button start.
Ride and handling
Ride comfort is a Nios strength, and the Turbo keeps it. Light steering makes it easy in town, but it feels less connected at higher speeds. Grip is acceptable, though the narrow tires limit cornering confidence. Wider tires would help.
Price compared with the 1.2 liter Nios
| Variant | Ex showroom price at launch |
|---|---|
| Sportz Turbo | Rs 7.68 lakh |
| Sportz Turbo dual tone | Rs 7.73 lakh |
| Sportz 1.2 manual | Rs 6.43 lakh |
| Sportz 1.2 manual dual tone | Rs 6.73 lakh |
The Turbo costs roughly Rs 1 lakh to 1.25 lakh more than the equivalent 1.2 liter Sportz. For that money you get far better performance, but not a better equipment list. Rivals at the time included the Maruti Swift and the Tata Tiago JTP, and the Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI sat at the performance end of the segment.
Is the Turbo worth it?
If you drive on highways or enjoy a quicker car, the extra power is real and the premium is easier to justify. If most of your driving is in the city, the standard 1.2 liter Nios is cheaper, easier to live with and adequate. The Turbo also lacks sharper handling and a more engaging chassis, so it is a fast hatchback, not a true hot hatch.
Buying a used Nios Turbo
The Turbo has since been dropped from the mainstream lineup, so used examples are less common. Check availability and service history carefully.
- Ask for full service records and proof of regular oil changes, which matter more on a turbocharged engine.
- Listen on a cold start for rattles or unusual noises.
- Test the turbo response through the rev range and check for hesitation.
- Check the clutch and gearbox for smooth operation.
- Inspect the tires, suspension and brakes.
- Look for accident repairs and check the VIN for open recalls.
Verdict
The 2020 Nios Turbo is quick, smooth and easy to drive, and it keeps the usable cabin and good ride of the normal car. It is held back by the price premium, a limited equipment list and handling that does not match the performance. For buyers who want the fastest Nios and can find a good one, it is a fun and practical choice.
FAQ
What engine does the 2020 Nios Turbo have?
A 1.0 liter three cylinder turbo petrol making 100 PS and 172 Nm.
How much did it cost at launch?
Rs 7.68 lakh ex showroom, with dual tone at Rs 7.73 lakh.
Does the Nios Turbo have an automatic?
No. It was sold only with a five speed manual.
What is the mileage?
About 20.3 kmpl claimed.
Which trim was the Turbo sold in?
Only the Sportz.