Ford Fiesta ST MK8 vs. Hyundai i20N
Struggling to choose between the MK8 Ford Fiesta ST and the Hyundai i20N? We break down the pros, cons, and key differences to help you pick the best hot hatch.
In a world of mundane and NPC cars, If you’re looking for a small hot hatch that’s fun, affordable, and practical, the Ford Fiesta ST MK8 and the Hyundai i20N are two of the best choices on the market. Both offer exciting performance, sharp handling, and everyday usability, but they also have key differences that could sway your decision.
We will look at the pros and cons of both cars and see which one you prefer, whether that the veteran (Fiesta ST) or the new kid on the block (i20N)
Performance and Driving Experience
| Spec | Ford Fiesta ST MK8 | Hyundai i20N |
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo 3-Cylinder | 1.6L Turbo 4-Cylinder |
| Power | 200 HP | 204 HP |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 275 Nm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.5s | 6.2s |
| Drive | FWD | FWD |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
Pros & Cons: Fiesta ST
Pros –
- Lightweight & Agile – Feels incredibly nimble and sharp on twisty roads.
- Brilliant Chassis – One of the best-handling front-wheel-drive cars available.
- Great Daily Driver – Comfortable suspension for everyday use.
- Tunable 3-Cylinder Engine – Sounds unique and has more grunt at the lower end.
Cons –
- Less Practical – Slightly smaller boot and rear space.
- Stock Exhaust is Quiet – Needs an aftermarket exhaust to sound exciting.
- Interior Feels Cheaper – Lacks the premium feel of some rivals.
Pros & Cons: i20N
Pros –
- Raw & Engaging Drive – Feels more aggressive than the Fiesta ST.
- Bigger & More Practical – More space in the rear seats and boot.
- Louder & More Characterful – Stock exhaust has great pops and bangs.
- Built for Enthusiasts – N Mode, launch control, and track-ready tech.
Cons –
- Harsher Ride – Stiffer suspension makes it less comfortable daily.
- Less Playful Than the Fiesta – Not as tail-happy in corners.
- Heavier Steering – Feels heavier at lower speeds.
The Fiesta ST is the more playful and forgiving car, while the i20N feels more hardcore and aggressive.
Interior & Technology
| Feature | Fiesta ST MK8 | Hyundai i20N |
| Build Quality | Good, but lots of plastic | More premium materials |
| Digital Display | No digital dash | Full digital instrument cluster |
| Infotainment | 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen | 10.25-inch touchscreen |
| Seats | Recaro bucket seats | N Sport bucket seats |
| Cabin Space | Decent, but tight in the back | More rear legroom & bigger boot |
The i20N wins for tech and interior quality, while the Fiesta ST has better sports seats.
Running Costs & Maintenance
| Expense | Fiesta ST MK8 | Hyundai i20N |
| MPG | 35–40 MPG | 34–38 MPG |
| Insurance Group | 28 | 27 |
| Road Tax | £180–£250 | £180–£250 |
| Servicing | £200–£350 per year | £250–£400 per year |
Tuning Potential
Running Costs: Fiesta ST
- Cheaper to maintain, with more available parts.
- Better fuel economy, especially on motorway drives.
Running Costs: i20N
- More expensive servicing costs, but still reasonable.
- Slightly worse fuel economy due to a more aggressive tune.
The Fiesta ST is cheaper to run, while the i20N may cost slightly more in the long run.
| Stage | Fiesta ST MK8 | Hyundai i20N |
| Software (Stage 1) | ~240 HP | ~240 HP |
| Hardware (Stage 2) | ~260 HP | ~260 HP |
| Hybrid Turbo & Hardware (Stage 3) | 300+ HP | 300+ HP |
| Tuning Cost | ~£500–£800 (Stage 1) | ~£600–£900 (Stage 1) |
Tuning Pros & Cons: Fiesta ST
Positives –
- Easy to modify, with a huge aftermarket scene.
- Simple bolt-ons can add big power.
Negatives –
- Doesn’t feel as mechanical and engaging as the previous generation.
Tuning Pros & Cons: i20N
Positives –
- More aggressive stock tune, meaning it’s already fast.
- Stronger gearbox than the Fiesta ST.
Negatives –
- Less aftermarket support, as it’s a newer model.
The Fiesta ST has a bigger aftermarket scene, but both have similar tuning potential.
Which One Should You Buy?
| Category | Winner |
| Performance & Grip | i20N (More powerful stock) |
| Driving Fun | Fiesta ST (More playful) |
| Interior Quality | i20N (More premium) |
| Running Costs | Fiesta ST (Cheaper to maintain) |
| Tuning Potential | Fiesta ST (More mods available) |
| Value for Money | Fiesta ST (Cheaper used prices) |
Buy the Fiesta ST if:
- Want a fun, playful, tail-happy hot hatch.
- Looking for a cheaper car to run and modify.
- Prefer a more comfortable daily driver.
Buy the i20N if:
- Want a more aggressive, track-ready feel.
- Prefer a more premium interior and better tech.
- Like pops, bangs, and a loud stock exhaust.
As always if you have any questions then please feel free to email us at sales@modcentraluk.com, or drop us a message on Instagram.
