The facelifted 2021 Hyundai Kona and new
Kona N Line models have just been unveiled by the South Korean car
manufacturer. While the overall shape of the updated Kona remains similar to
the outgoing model, a host of changes have been made. These changes are
particularly apparent at the front end where Hyundai has fitted re-designed LED
daytime running lights while also installing a new lower bumper, a robust skid
plate, and a revised black grille. Elsewhere, Hyundai has outfitted the facelifted
Kona with new main headlights.
Spin around to the rear and the tweaked
Kona sports new taillights with revised graphics. There is also a distinctive
rear bumper while 16-, 17-, and 18-inch wheels will also be offered throughout
the range. A series of unique styling elements make the Kona N Line stand out
from the regular model. This includes a bespoke front fascia with a new bumper,
three subtle air slots above the grille, an N-style aerodynamic lip with corner
fins, distinctive rocker panels, and 18-inch wheels. The rear bumper also
includes a diffuser and N-style fins.
Under the skin, the 2021 Hyundai Kona
arrives with a host of new engines. Sitting at the top of the range is an
enhanced 1.6-liter T-GDI Smartstream engine producing 194 hp and paired with a
seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This engine will be offered in two-wheel
drive and four-wheel drive variations.
A 1.6-liter Smartstream diesel engine with
48-volt mild-hybrid technology is also on offer. This powertrain packs 134 hp
and can be coupled to either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a
Hyundai’s six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6iMT), as well as optional
four-wheel drive. Sitting at the base of the range is a 1.0-liter T-GDI
Smartstream petrol with 118 hp that can be equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid
technology and Hyundai’s 6iMT gearbox. Should customers prefer not to have the
48-volt mild-hybrid system, they can select between a 7-speed dual-clutch or a
6-speed manual with optional four-wheel drive.
Last but not least is the new 2021 Hyundai
Kona Hybrid that combines a 1.6-liter GDI engine with an electric motor to
produce a combined 138 hp. This model sports a 1.56 kWh battery pack, a 6-speed
dual-clutch transmission, and front-wheel drive.
Hyundai has made a number of suspension
enhancements to improve comfort without negatively impacting the vehicle’s
sporty character. Most notably, the stabilizer bars have been modified for
better ride comfort and isolation while the rear bump stop has also been
modified. Steering changes have also been made.
Rounding out the upgrades for 2021 are a
series of interior improvements. For example, the Kona comes with a 10.25-inch
digital gauge cluster and can also be optioned with a 10.25-inch central
infotainment screen that includes a split-screen function. Other updates made
include ambient lighting technology, a host of new color and material options,
including two-tone beige leather and Khaki leather.
Key safety features within Hyundai’s
SmartSense Active Safety suite include Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist,
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with stop
and go, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Lane Following Assist, Intelligent
Speed Limit Warning, Safe Exit Warning, Rear Seat Alert, and Forward
Collision-Avoidance Assist. The new Hyundai Kona will land in European
showrooms towards the end of the year before hitting the Australian market in
the first quarter of 2021.
