The Journey to Assam’s First Elite i20 with OEM+ (GTTunerz) Stage 2 Tuning: A Complete Mod Guide

If you're a car enthusiast like me, you know that the stock version of any vehicle is just the beginning. My 2018 Hyundai Elite i20 was no different. I wanted to turn it into something unique—something that not only looked aggressive but performed better too. After a lot of planning and research, I’m proud to say it’s now Assam’s first Elite i20 with @gttunerz OEM+ Stage 2 tuning, packed with mods that enhance both performance and style.

In this post, I’ll take you through the various modifications I’ve done, why I chose them, and whether they were worth the investment.

1. Stage 2 Tuning with Pops and Burbles (@gttunerz)

Let’s start with the heart of it all— Stage 2 tuning. This modification was a game-changer for me. Stage 2 tuning essentially remaps the car’s engine control unit (ECU) to optimize fuel-air ratios, increase horsepower, and improve throttle response. 

The result? Noticeable gains in power, especially at higher RPMs. The car feels more alive, and the added pops and burbles from the exhaust give it a unique, race-inspired sound. Every time I let off the throttle, I’m reminded why I love this mod—it’s an instant head-turner.

2. HPI Performance Air Filter

An engine needs to breathe, and the HPI Performance Air Filter is designed to do just that. This performance air filter allows for a smoother and higher volume of airflow into the engine, which means better combustion and slightly more power. 

In terms of real-world results, the i20 feels more responsive, especially during hard acceleration. It’s not a massive boost in horsepower, but it complements the Stage 2 tuning perfectly, allowing the engine to make the most of the remap.

3. Mark Performance’s Full Piping with Remus Endcan

One of the first things I wanted to address was the exhaust system. A good exhaust upgrade not only enhances the sound but also improves exhaust flow, leading to better engine efficiency.

I went with Mark Performance’s full piping system paired with a Remus Endcan. The deep, throaty exhaust note is music to my ears, especially when paired with the pops from the tuning. In terms of performance, the car breathes easier, with faster throttle response and improved mid-range torque.

4. Cobra Suspension with 35/30mm Drop on Stock Wheels

Now, let’s talk about handling. I installed Cobra lowering springs, which dropped the car by 35mm at the front and 30mm at the rear. This lowered center of gravity has drastically reduced body roll, making the car feel more planted during corners. It’s a must-have if you want a sportier driving experience.

One thing to keep in mind: the ride does get stiffer. While it’s perfect for smooth roads and highway drives, you will feel bumps more on rough terrains. But for me, the improved handling and aggressive stance were worth the trade-off.

5. Lighting Upgrades: Crystal Eye LEDs and HIDs

Visibility is key, especially for night driving. I upgraded to Crystal Eye 120w LED fog lights, 55w HID headlights, and 130w cornering lights. The difference is day and night—literally.

These lights don’t just improve visibility, they add a modern, sleek look to the car, especially when paired with the underglow lights (which I’ll get to in a bit). The LED and HID setup ensures that you have crystal-clear vision, even on the darkest roads.

6. Stock Wheels (195/65R16)

Even though I’ve modified several aspects of the car, I chose to stick with the **stock wheels (195/65R16)**. Why? Well, they’re perfectly balanced for the setup I’ve got. The stock wheels give me enough traction and stability without needing a costly wheel upgrade. Sometimes, stock parts perform just fine, and for my current build, they do the job.

7. Ambient and Underglow Lights

Aesthetic mods are just as important, and I wanted to give my i20 a bit of flair. The ambient lighting inside the cabin creates a cozy, premium vibe during night drives. And as for the underglow lights, they give the car a bold look that stands out at night.

It might not be everyone’s taste, but if you want your car to have that extra pop when you pull into a parking lot, underglow lights are a fun, flashy addition.

8. Black Roof Wrap

Finally, I opted for a black roof wrap. This simple modification added a level of contrast that made the entire car’s design feel more cohesive. It’s a subtle change, but sometimes it’s the little things that complete the look.

9. Reflectors

While reflectors are often overlooked, they are an important safety feature. I added reflectors to increase visibility for other drivers, especially during low light conditions. They might be a minor addition, but they complete the rear-end look while improving safety.

Conclusion: Was It All Worth It?

Absolutely. Every modification done to my Hyundai i20 has elevated both its performance and appearance. The car feels more responsive, handles like a dream, and looks more aggressive than ever. 

Of course, these mods won’t be for everyone—some might prioritize comfort over performance, or aesthetics over handling. But for me, the balance I’ve struck between performance and style is exactly what I was aiming for.

Shoutout to  @garage69assam and @theupgradegarage for helping me bring this vision to life. If you're thinking about modifying your car, make sure to choose mods that suit your driving style and needs. At the end of the day, every mod should enhance your driving experience, whether that’s in terms of performance, aesthetics, or both.