The automaker’s N Performance sub-brand introduces its first SUV aka Kona N subcompact crossover. The sub-brand engineers have previously shown their magic with the Veloster hatchback which shares a lot with the 2022 Kona N.
For instance, stiff suspension, turbo 4-cylinder, and strong handling. It’s exterior boasts all the essential sporty details – big air intakes, black grille, N badges, elegant and simple light signatures, creased and hole-punched hood, a dual exhaust, low-profile tires, diffuser, side skirts, and a red pinstripe at the bottom of spoiler. These exterior features develop into a stark and amphibious front end. If you want to buy used cars for sale in Dubai, hop on to the CarSwitch website.
Engine and Performance
Behind the crossover’s aggressive vented nose sits a turbo 2 liter 4-cylinder petrol engine. This powertrain is sourced from Hyundai i30N and is squeezed into the smaller Kona N (50 kg heavier). In the standard state, 276 ponies and 289-pound feet of torque are delivered but by pressing the red button on the perforated steering wheel, an extra 10 hp is gained for 20 seconds only.
This overbust option is determined to provide thrills to the driver. However, Kona N doesn’t offer it’s little sibling’s manual transmission. Instead, an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic drives torque to the front wheels. The permanent front-wheel-drive keeps the weight acceptable at 1.5 tonnes.
The steering feels as if it can be a bit faster but sufficient feedback is gained by the helm. It flashes through 0 to 60 mph in only 5.5 seconds and impresses with the top speed of 149 mph.
Although EPA has not released fuel economy estimates for the crossover, it is expected to be less efficient than the standard one. There is an N-honed stability control available with Hill descent, snow and sand modes. Unlike the other models in it’s car segment, the crossover drives surprisingly accurately.
Read More: Hyundai releases first ever information regarding KONAN
Cabin and comfort
Unlike the all-black exterior, the Kona N sub-brands signature color aka Performance Blue is embraced by the cabin, which feels like a breath of fresh air. The look is completed by mode buttons, contrast stitching, shifter knob, and suede-like seat coverings.
A pair of huge hugging sports seats with a well-dressed interior at the front is visible. Both physical and digital touchpoints are available. While the media, navigation, and drive mode screens are all quickly managed on the touchscreen, the physical climate controls are situated below.
Moreover, a large circular ESC off-button is located beside the manual handbrake and normal gear selector. These things are rare in any performance-oriented vehicle, let alone a small SUV. It is expected that the crossover will store the same amount of luggage behind the back seats as the standard Kona, which is 4 carry-on suitcases.
A 10.3 inches digital gauge cluster is offered which is modern. There is no need to glance at it since there is a heads-up display on the dashboard which displays the speed. Following the sporty intentions of the Kona N crossover, the 10.3 inches infotainment screen will feature lap monitoring and track maps information on request to the racetrack-minded owners. Other important cabin information is an 8-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system and wireless charging.
Safety and driver assistance functions
Numerous driver assistance functions will be offered as standard to the drivers of Kona N. The primary safety features are listed below.
- Standard adaptive cruise control
- Standard blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist
- Standard automatic high beams
Warranty and maintenance coverage
Unless the automaker decides to discard it’s usual protection plans, potential buyers can expect that Kona N will gain the same appealing coverage as Hyundai’s other vehicles. The basic warranty and maintenance coverage is mentioned below.
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage for 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Limited warranty coverage for 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty coverage for 10 years or 100,000 miles
After 4 years with only a single model in Europe, the outstanding i30N hot hatchback, the South Korean automaker’s sporty performance sub-brand has added another 2 models almost at the same time. The i20N just went on sale and now Kona N arrives.
It is speculated that the 2022 Kona N crossover will be the last N model released with internal combustion as its only power supply because hints are dropping that the N sub-brand will go electric.
