This hot Hyundai Kona sports some rather sporty design details to complement its powerful powertrain.
Hyundai has recently teased what its new Kona N will look like ahead of its imminent debut. The first model in the South Korean automaker’s SUV lineup to be given the full-fat N treatment, this upcoming addition to the N lineup nevertheless features all the prerequisite sporty touches that many have come to expect from a hot Hyundai.
Starting from the front, the Kona N naturally features a redesigned front bumper, with three new central vents up top, larger front air intakes on either side and a larger lower front grille down below, to give it that more aggressive look. A look which is then topped off by an N badge on the custom honeycomb mesh front grille, as well as the customary red accent stripe on the lower edge of the front fascia that is a signature on all N models.
Speaking of that accent stripe, the flash of red continues down the extended side sills to add some pizzazz to the curvy two-tone side profile. Other exterior enhancements down the side of the Kona N includes flared body coloured wheel arches, that hide beneath it larger bespoke alloy wheels wrapped in low profile performance tyres.
Round the back meanwhile, the Kona N adds a double-wing roof spoiler with integrated triangular third brake light. There is also a redesigned rear bumper down below, complete with a black diffuser and twin large circular tailpipes that indicate the presence of a sports exhaust system.
Now as for the interior, official details regarding the cabin of this performance-inspired compact crossover are still few and far between. Though it is perhaps safe to say that this hot Kona will come as standard with the usual N accoutrements like sporty bucket seats, aluminium pedals, red stitching, as well as the all important pale blue N mode button on the sports steering wheel.
Moreover, what is perhaps more concrete information is that the powertrain of this hot Hyundai will comprise of a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder slated to make around 275 hp and 353 Nm. A similar engine to be found in the Veloster N, the Kona N unfortunately however lacks the six-speed manual transmission option as in its coupe counterpart, making do instead with an 8-speed N DCT dual clutch transmission.
Touted to come with all the prerequisite ‘high-performance driving features’ too, such launch control and an ‘emotional sound experience’ for ’N-thusiasts’ to enjoy both on the road, and on the track, more details regarding this upcoming Kona N should be available in the coming weeks as this hot Hyundai gears up for its official launch.
PRESS RELEASE: Hyundai Motor has revealed a glimpse of the all-new KONA N without its camouflage disguise. In a series of teaser images, fans and enthusiasts can enjoy a first look at the latest member of the brand’s high-performance N range.
The all-new KONA N will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N brand line-up, and the first N model with an SUV body type.
As the first images reveal, the ‘hot SUV’ boasts a sporty appearance, further emphasised by its wide, low stance. For the very first time, the Hyundai N division and Hyundai Design Center worked together to develop on an SUV body type, creating a product that clearly represents a powerful presence and driving fun. The all-new KONA N combines the modern design of the recently launched new KONA with the bold and dynamic language of the company’s N models.
The front view is dominated by large, sporty and iconic air intakes, and the new light signature gives Hyundai’s latest high-performance model an aggressive, powerful appearance. The lower grille defines the character of the bumper fascia: its shape is inspired by an aeronautic fuselage and extends to the side of the car, emphasising its aerodynamic efficiency and speed. An N logo on the unique upper grille completes the look.
At the rear, a large double-wing roof spoiler for enhanced downforce gives spice to the rear view. It also incorporates a third, triangular brake light, as is customary with N models. Large N dual exhaust mufflers fully express the model’s high-performance spirit. Lower down on the rear bumper, a large diffuser enhances the airflow departure. The sporty appearance is further emphasised through body-coloured fenders, bringing KONA N visually closer to the ground.
The all-new KONA N is equipped with the eye-catching features reserved for N models, such as exclusive alloy wheels and red accents that embellish the side sills.
The all-new KONA N will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N family, Hyundai’s high-performance, motorsport-inspired line-up. It will also expand the successful Hyundai SUV family.
