Hyundai’s N sub-brand has been a hit with enthusiasts, but its appeal has been limited due to a lineup that consists of the i20 N, i 30 N and Veloster N. All three are cars and consumers want crossovers. Hyundai is now acknowledging the obvious as they’ve taken the wraps off the all-new Kona N. Set to become the first N crossover, the model promises to provide a “winning combination of versatility, spirited acceleration, agility and racetrack readiness.”
Given its intentions, we’ll start under
the hood where buyers will find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that
produces 276 hp and 392 Nm of torque. However,
this can temporarily be increased to 286 hp by using the N
Grin Shift function. The engine is connected to an eight-speed dual clutch
transmission, which features a wet design as well as numerous modifications for
high-performance use. Among the changes are specially-tuned gear ratios and a
uniquely calibrated control unit that allows for faster shifts.
Thanks to the powerful engine and
performance-focused gearbox, the Kona N can accelerate from 0-100
km/h in 5.5 seconds when using Launch Control. If drivers keep their foot on
the accelerator, the model will eventually hit a top speed of 240
km/h. Sticking with the performance theme, the Kona N has N Grin Shift, N
Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift functions. N Grin Shift maximizes engine
and transmission performance for 20 seconds, while N Power Shift activates during
rapid acceleration and maximizes torque during upshifts. Likewise, N Track
Sense Shift optimizes gear changes and shift timing for sporty driving.
The performance features don’t end there
as the crossover comes equipped with 19-inch forged wheels that are backed up
by a high-performance braking system. The Kona N also comes with an electronic
limited slip differential, which delivers “maximized fun when carving corners.”
Other highlights include a variable exhaust, a reinforced structure, and five driving
modes known as Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom.
Putting the performance features aside,
the Kona N has an aggressive exterior that builds on the Kona N Line. The
changes are immediately apparent as the high-performance model is distinguished
by a unique grille and red accents. The crossover also has body-colored fender
flares, sporty side skirts and a front spoiler. Bigger changes occur out back
as the Kona N has a triangular third brake light and a double-wing spoiler
which increases downforce. The model also sports an enormous dual exhaust
system and N badging. ast but not least, the Kona N will be available in an
N-exclusive Sonic Blue color. It’s billed as a new spin on Performance Blue and
Hyundai hinted it could eventually find its way to other N crossovers.
The upgrades continue in the cabin as
drivers will find an N-specific sport steering wheel and a head-up display that
adds a “game-like dimension to every driving experience under N or Sport drive
modes.” They’re joined by a digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch
infotainment system with track maps and a lap timer. Elsewhere, there are alloy
pedals and N-branded sport seats. Designers also added Performance Blue
accents, which stand in contrast to the red accents used in the Kona N Line.
On the safety front, there’s an array of
driver assistance systems including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane
Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist and Smart Cruise Control. Other features
include Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, High Beam Assist, Rear
Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Alert and Safe Exit Warning. We’ll learn more
about the Kona N closer to launch, but Hyundai officials suggested the model
will be relatively affordable. Unfortunately, they also downplayed the
possibility of an all-wheel drive variant.
