A 'hot SUV', the all-new KONA N joins the N family
•All-new Hyundai KONA N to be next model in N line-up•First SÚV to join the N family
•Set to deliver the benefits of an SÚV as well as uncompromised driving fun
•Eight-speed N DCT and the 2.0 turbo engine guarantee high-performance
Hyundai Motor has confirmed that the next member of its high-performance N range will be the all-new Hyundai KONA N. The model will be the first high-performance SÚV for Hyundai.
'We're excited to expand the recipe for success we've developed with the i30 N and, most recently, with the i20 N to one of our most popular SÚVs on the market today: KONA,' says Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Vice President of Marketing & Product at Hyundai Motor Europe. 'The addition of KONA to the N family will bring our high-performance brand to the next level.'
The all-new KONA N will be available with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, known as N DCT. Combined with its 2.0 Turbo engine, it is sure to deliver a powerful and nimble driving experience. As with other N models, the all-new KONA N will be equipped with a variety of high-performance driving features such as Launch Control and an emotional sound experience.
'The all-new KONA N is the first 'hot SÚV' from the N brand,' says Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management and Motorsport Sub-division at Hyundai Motor Company. 'As a 'hot SÚV', it will have plenty of versatility as well as the driving pleasure like any other N vehicle. Enthusiasts will enjoy taking this car anywhere; from road to the track.'
Hyundai's high-performance brand N, which ventured into the high-performance field with its i30 N, is planning to expand its line-up in 2021. Especially with more diversified segments in its line-up, like the i20 N and the upcoming KONA N, the N brand will provide fun-to-drive vehicles that befit any kinds of consumers looking for driving pleasure.Source - Hyundai
•The all-new KONA N will be the first SÚV to join the Hyundai N family
•The 'hot SÚV' will deliver the fun-to-drive feeling of Hyundai N models with the uncompromising versatility of an SÚV
•KONA N is the second Hyundai N model in Europe to be equipped with N DCT, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission
•KONA N incorporates several high-performance driving features dedicated to Hyundai N models, including Launch Control and N Grin Control System
Hyundai Motor has unveiled the all-new KONA N, an urban compact high-performance 'hot SÚV' that combines exhilarating performance with a balanced day-to-day driving experience. It is the first SÚV model to join the N brand line-up and is set apart by its SÚV body type paired with powerful, N-specific driving features.
The all-new KONA N combines the fun-to-drive experience of a hot hatch with the versatility of an SÚV: Drivers will appreciate its powerful engine and emotional sound experience, while also benefitting from the perfect size and practicality for urban life, including an extensive list of safety features. The all-new KONA N will appeal to active customers looking for a high-performance vehicle that suits the various needs of different lifestyles, including an exhilarating experience on the racetrack.
The 'hot SÚV' was developed to offer customers uncompromising performance alongside the fun-to-drive philosophy of N brand, together with core SÚV values of comfort, convenience, and safety. The latest member of the N brand comes with a four-cylinder 2.0 T-GDI 280 PS flat power engine and a highly distinctive, sporty design. Various motorsport-inspired features contribute to an all-around dynamic driving experience. These include lightweight, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, special sports seats, and an emotional sound experience. The 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (N DCT) allows for an even more sporty, high-performance character.
'KONA N is a true 'hot SÚV' with the performance level of a hot hatch. It breaks the rule that SÚVs cannot be fun to drive. As an N model, it goes beyond the limits of an ordinary SÚV,' says Albert Biermann, President and Head of R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group. 'KONA N can carve corners on the racetrack and bring excitement to everyday driving.'
To embody the N philosophy with its three pillars corner rascal, everyday sports car, and race track capability, the all-new KONA N comes with a range of high-performance functionalities: Electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) and its various Electronic Stability Control (ESC) modes have been optimised to improve cornering. Traction Mode ensures that traction can be established across a variety of road conditions while N Grin Control System offers five drive modes across all N models (Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom) contribute to its everyday sports car character. Finally, features such as Launch Control or Creep Off ensure full racetrack capability.
KONA N design makes for a powerful presence on the road
The all-new KONA N is a 'hot SÚV', whose look clearly speaks about a powerful presence and driving fun. It combines the modern design of the new KONA base car with the bold and dynamic language of N models. With a 4,215-mm length, 1,800-mm width, and 1,565-mm height, the all-new KONA N is 10 mm longer than the new KONA and just as long as the new KONA sporty N Line trim. At 2,600 mm, the wheelbase, compared with the base car, remains unchanged. A total of 361 litres of storage space supports a range of outdoor activities. Designed with a focus on maximum weight reduction and high strength, the lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels add to a great stance and very sporty appearance.
Exterior design
The exterior design features understated, body-coloured design elements with N-exclusive red accents. At the front, the iconic KONA 'shark nose' front end is complemented by large air openings that fulfil the cooling needs of the powerful N-tuned engine. The front splitter of the bumper has been increased in size by 10 mm to improve aerodynamic drag and balance. The lower grille was inspired by aeronautic fuselage and conveys a message of aerodynamic efficiency and speed. Body-coloured claddings emphasise the width and bring the vehicle closer to the ground. An exclusive front grille design, with its dedicated mesh, an integrated N logo, and the aggressive light signature of the new KONA, complete the vehicle's powerful front-on appearance. The Hyundai emblem in dark satin grey was moved down from the bonnet to lower the front focal point.
To the side, customers will notice how the all-new KONA N's sporty silhouette is emphasised by a low ride height. Several other design cues indicate that this is a high-performance Hyundai N model, including N-exclusive alloy wheels with a dark satin grey finish and red callipers, an N logo on the wheel cap, and an exclusive side sill in red with an engraved N logo.
At the rear, the large, double-wing roof spoiler dominates the view, providing the necessary balance to keep the car on the road. Customers will also notice the iconic triangular third brake light. Lower down on the rear bumper, a large diffuser enhances the airflow departure and minimises turbulence. Its red accent line and two large exhaust mufflers further emphasise the performance spirit.
For the launch of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai developed a new exterior colour: Sonic Blue. Sonic Blue is set between white and light grey, tinted with Performance Blue. It has been developed to be suitable for an SÚV body type while still referencing the dedicated Hyundai high-performance colour Performance Blue. The exclusive new N SÚV colour complements and contrasts with the other red, dark grey, and glossy black exterior design elements, giving the all-new KONA N a sporty new look. KONA N is also available in Performance Blue, which is exclusive to N models.
All-new KONA N exterior colours:
•Sonic Blue – the new N SÚV dedicated colour – with Tomato Red accents launch colour
•Phantom Black Pearl
•Atlas White
•Cyber Grey Metallic
•Dark Knight Grey Pearl
•Ignite Red
•Performance Blue
Interior design
Inside, the all-new KONA N offers a performance-oriented look and feel optimised for high-performance driving. It is equipped with high-quality Alcantara materials. One feature that stands out is the N-exclusive sport steering wheel, which features a design optimised for the perfect grip and button layout necessary for dynamic driving. Two customisable N buttons on the steering wheel allow for any type of pre-set to be mapped according to individual needs for even more ease of operation, and paddle shifters make it possible for the driver to switch gears without taking their hands off the wheel.
The N-branded handbrake features non-slip perforated leather and a thicker grip area for a more secure braking performance. Customers will also notice the exclusive Performance Blue stitching and high-quality metal pedals, and exclusive sports seats. N logos on the gear shift, hand brake, door scuff, and seats allow customers to 'feel the feeling' whenever they are inside the car.
The all-new KONA N is available with an exclusive N colour package featuring one-tone Black with cloth, leather, or suede seats.
Interior colour:
•One-tone Black interior with Performance Blue accents and cloth, leather or suede seats
Powertrain: 280 PS of flat power paired with N DCT
The all-new KONA N is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre T-GDI engine with a power output of 280 PS and a maximum torque of 392 Nm. It features flat power that provides more torque and power at mid and high-range RPMs. The new higher amount of torque utilises more of the engine's potential in everyday driving situations. The new engine power characteristic also improves acceleration in the mid and high-speed range and delivers high performance consistently, even in a variety of outside temperature conditions.
The all-new KONA N is available with N DCT, an 8-speed, wet-type transmission with two separated clutches for better acceleration and a faster upshift. The wet type clutches further provide for better cooling. Hyundai's N DCT technology was first offered in the VELOSTER N, a model available in North America and Korea, and came to the new Hyundai i30 N because of the valuable feedback of the Hyundai N community. In the case of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai has specified all units with N DCT.
The N DCT enables three exclusive high-performance functions that are sure to bring a grin to the driver's face: N Power Shift, N Grin Shift, and N Track Sense Shift. These features enhance the car's capabilities by using dedicated shift logic management.
N Power Shift (NPS) engages when the car accelerates with more than 90 per cent of throttle, thereby mitigating any reduction in torque during upshifts to deliver maximum power to the wheels. This enhances driving fun by giving a 'push feel' when upshifting. The accompanying bang sound, coming from the partial cylinder cut of the exhaust, underlines the sporty performance. When NPS is used while the Launch Control function is active, the all-new KONA N can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds. NPS activates exclusively on N or Custom mode.
N Grin Shift (NGS) maximises engine and DCT performance for 20 seconds. To achieve maximum acceleration, the car will directly shift down to the most appropriate gear. To activate, the driver pushes a dedicated button on the steering wheel, and a countdown begins on the cluster showing the remaining seconds for this function. After the 'boost' has ended, drivers must wait at least 40 seconds to use it again. This feature allows the driver to use the full potential of the car with only one button – for example, when chasing for the best lap time. It can also be a benefit when overtaking or merging on a highway.
Meanwhile, N Track Sense Shift (NTS) optimises adaptive shift for racetrack driving, helping the driver to focus more on steering. It recognises when the conditions are optimal for dynamic driving on a racetrack and activates automatically. Based on motorsport data combined with the driver's behaviour, the car selects the right gear and shift timing in sport driving conditions to provide optimal performance, just like a professional race car driver.
Únlike with a traditional automatic transmission vehicle, in Hyundai vehicles with N DCT, the driver can choose to turn the Creep off. When the creep function is turned 'OFF' and the car is in gear D, the car does not automatically roll when the brake pedal is released. Depending on the driver, this racetrack feature can also be useful to enhance comfort and convenience. Creep Off mode can be activated or deactivated via the N custom settings.
The all-new KONA N with N DCT also offers drivers the option to switch to manual mode using the paddle shifters or the gear knob. The memory logic will prevent the transmission from automatically upshifting when the RPM limit is reached. That way, manual control allows the driver to sustain high revs when needed for an even sportier driving experience.
High-performance driving features
The all-new KONA N introduces the N brand into the SÚV line-up without compromising on driving pleasure or performance. The 'hot SÚV' includes a range of N dedicated functions previously introduced by other N models. KONA N is, furthermore, the first Hyundai high-performance vehicle to be equipped with a Performance Head-Úp Display (HÚD). When turned on in Sport or N mode, information such as RPM, speed, or shift indicator appear.
The N Grin Control System offers customers a high level of customisation, with five distinct drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom. These drive modes change the character of the all-new KONA N by adjusting the operating parameters of the engine, Electronic Stability Control, exhaust sound, and steering to optimise them for a variety of driving conditions. In the Custom mode, drivers can select settings from a variety of other driving modes (Normal, Sport and Sport+) to match their driving preferences and the road conditions. Dedicated N keys on the steering wheel of all-new KONA N flexibly allow any type of pre-sets to be mapped according to individual needs.
For a more emotional driving experience, a sporty engine sound from the exhaust and intake noise is supported by the Electronic Sound Generator (ESG) in the body panel. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen, an engine sound generator provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver. Variable muffler control also contributes to the perfect exhaust sound to provide the perfect driving experience. The Variable Exhaust Valve System comes standard with the all-new KONA N.
As with other Hyundai N models, the all-new KONA is equipped with Launch Control, which helps the car take off from a standing start on dry conditions like a professional race driver. It does this by controlling the engine torque at take-off.
Improved ride and handling features for uncompromised SÚV driving
In addition to its racetrack capabilities, the all-new KONA N is at heart still an SÚV. An extensive list of ride and handling features result in uncompromised SÚV driving abilities. With specially developed 235/40R19 Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tyres that deliver maximum grip mounted on lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels, the 'hot SÚV' is ready to tackle rough roads and a variety of terrain. A high-performance braking system delivering stability in changing driving conditions has been added for additional safety. In it, the increased front and rear disc brakes take in extra air through the enlarged intakes on either side of the car's front bumper for an enhanced cooling function. The application of high friction calliper material, a lower arm guide, and a heat shield maximise brake performance through better cooling and high heat endurance capacity.
Passive safety is increased thanks to the all-new KONA N's enhanced body rigidity. The body's extra welding points, improved strut ring structure, and reinforced skeleton protect passengers in the event of a collision. Additionally, the all-new KONA N's body rigidity also minimises body roll during manoeuvres.
Hyundai N models offer a new level of precision and responsiveness in its steering, delivering great value to the driver: The all-new KONA N enhances its base car with a specific Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering system (R-MDPS) with higher capacity, increased rigidity, and lower steering ratio. The electric steering assist system located in the steering gear provides direct and accurate steering with a good level of feedback as required by a high-performance vehicle. The driver can choose between three different steering settings (Normal, Sport and Sport+) to provide ideal steering efforts for different experiences, such as urban driving, country roads, or racetracks.
The all-new KONA N is also equipped with an Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) to control the dampening force, which further enhances handling and stability. Drivers can influence the stiffness of the suspension with the push of a button to optimise the vehicle's response for a variety of driving situations, whether on the road or at the racetrack.
For a maximised racetrack feel, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched off. ESC typically stabilises the vehicle during cornering manoeuvres by detecting any loss of traction and applying the brakes to individual wheels. This ensures better handling and vehicle stability in unexpected road conditions or difficult terrains. The ESC of the all-new KONA N comes with three modes for a customisable driving experience. 'ESC – ON' provides full stability and is optimised for dry, wet, or snowy conditions and provides more safety during everyday driving. 'ESC – SPORT' is optimised for racetrack driving. When the ESC is switched off completely, the vehicle does not implement any engine or brake interventions for stabilisation. Rather, it allows for dynamic torque vectoring, creating more dynamic vehicle behaviour. 'ESC – OFF' is optimised for experienced racetrack drivers.
Additionally, a Traction Control System (TCS) controls the driving force behind the wheels according to driving conditions to maximise traction and minimise slippage under off-road conditions. If the system detects that a wheel is spinning faster than the detected speed of the vehicle, the TCS adjusts the engine output through continuous feedback. By pushing the Drive Mode button, the driver can select from four different Traction Modes for better handling over a variety of road conditions using the front-wheel-drive: Snow Mode provides maximum stability in slippery or icy roads. Deep Snow enables more wheel spin, enabling more traction to avoid being stuck in deep snow. Mud Mode features medium wheel spin to allow the car to launch on muddy surfaces. Sand Mode enables a higher wheel spin for launch on sandy surfaces. Traction Modes are active between 0 and 60 km/h.
Meanwhile, the all-new KONA N's N Corner Carving Differential, an Electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD), enables excellent performance while cornering. This feature allows the wheels to turn at different speeds by applying different amounts of torque, depending on the load transfer from the inner to the outer front axle wheel. This reduces wheel slip in specific conditions and minimises understeering while cornering. N Corner Carving Differential also allows drivers to round corners at higher speeds, making the all-new KONA N even more fun to drive.
In addition, the N Power Sense Axle at the front combined with a multi-link type rear suspension provides enhanced stiffness for improved ride and handling performance.
Advanced safety features for everyday driving
As with the new base car, the all-new KONA N is available with an extensive list of Hyundai SmartSense active safety and convenience features for added peace of mind. This is an important aspect of the everyday sports car pillar of KONA N as it makes the model safer and more convenient in everyday driving situations. Systems such as Rear Seat Alert and Safe Exit Warning specifically contribute to the protection of all passengers.
All-new KONA N Hyundai SmartSense active safety features:
•Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) – sounds a warning and applies differential braking to prevent the vehicle from colliding into another vehicle in the adjacent lane
•Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA) – sounds a warning and applies the brakes to prevent a rear-end collision when the car is backing up and another car comes from the side, for example when exiting a parking space
•Smart Cruise Control (SCC) – maintains vehicle speed and following distance
•Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) – if the car is stopped, the car ahead of it starts moving, and the driver does not react quickly enough, this system sounds an alert to gently direct the driver's attention back to the road
•Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) – automatically keeps the car centred in the lane, corrects course if the car reaches the lane markings by using a front-view camera
•Lane Following Assist (LFA) – automatically adjusts the steering wheel to keep the vehicle centred in its lane
•Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW) – recognises road signs and displays the speed limit and no-passing signs in real-time in both the AVN and cluster
•Safe Exit Warning (SEW) – works to prevent an accident when the car is parked, another car is approaching from the rear side, and a passenger attempts to open the door. A warning light also appears on the cluster to alert the driver of the potential danger
•Rear Seat Alert (RSA) – automatically alerts the driver if someone or something is in the back seat if they attempt to leave the vehicle
•Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist detection (FCA) – sounds an alarm and, if necessary, applies the brakes if a collision becomes imminent. Úsing radar and a camera, the system has been updated to better detect pedestrians and cyclists, in addition to other vehicles
•High Beam Assist (HBA) – detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles ahead in the same lane and adjusts to low-beam lights as appropriate
•Driver Attention Warning (DAW) – continuously monitors and analyses driving patterns through data inputs to detect fatigue or distraction. The driver is alerted with an audible warning and pop-up message to suggest when it is time to take a break
Other safety features:
•eCall – allows passengers to easily contact emergency services at the press of a button; also, automatically alerts first responders if the vehicle's airbags are deployed
Tech and connectivity
The tech and connectivity equipment in the all-new KONA N focuses on enhancing all driving experiences. The Performance Head-Úp Display (HÚD) projects vehicle information onto a transparent screen. It allows the driver to see relevant navigation, safety, and driving information while keeping their eyes on the road. It can be activated and deactivated with a button on the dash panel.
The all-new KONA N additionally comes with a 10.25-inch digital N cluster with a sporty design and a 10.25-inch AVN touchscreen. A Performance Driving Data System monitors and improves racetrack driving skills. The feature saves and displays driving data, such as PS, torque, and turbo boost, during racetrack driving via AVN touchscreen. The system also comes with a lap and acceleration timer. When driving in Sport or N mode, the N graphics will also be shown at HÚD.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluelink® Connected Car Services make the everyday driving experience even in a high-performance vehicle more convenient. The all-new KONA N is also equipped with additional voice recognition features. Drivers can activate and control features like climate, rear window and side mirror heating, as well as steering wheel heating through a simple voice command.
The all-new KONA N benefits from Hyundai's comprehensive five-year unlimited mileage warranty.Source - Hyundai
Hyundai
Similarly Sized Vehicles
from 2021
Hyundai Monthly Sales Volume
September 2024
62,491
August 2024
79,278
July 2024
69,202
June 2024
67,631
May 2024
78,485
April 2024
68,603
March 2024
76,920
February 2024
60,341
January 2024
47,543
December 2023
75,164
November 2023
70,079
October 2023
60,805
Recent Vehicle Additions
Performance and Specification Comparison
Related Automotive News
Hyundai Motor Takes Sport Utility Performance to the 'N'th Degree with the All-New KONA N, a 'True Hot SUV'
The all-new KONA N is the latest addition to high-performance N Brand and its first True Hot SUV possessing racetrack capability and the versatility of a utility vehicle
Hyundai Motor is expanding the N and N Line lineup to 18 models through 2022...
Hyundai Announces All-New KONA N Prices and Specifications
KONA N is the N brands first performance SUV, capable of 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds Electronically-controlled suspension, 8-speed DCT gearbox, Launch Control and Active Exhaust all as standard Priced from £35,395 OTR
Hyundai Mo...
Hyundai announces New i30 N prices and specifications
Exterior design updates New 8 speed DCT gearbox Upgraded power with 280PS and 392Nm torque Prices from £33,745
Hyundai Motor UK has announced the pricing and specification of the New i30 N...
Hyundai Motor Takes Sport Utility Performance to the 'N'th Degree with the All-New KONA N, a 'True Hot SUV'
The all-new KONA N is the latest addition to high-performance N Brand and its first True Hot SUV possessing racetrack capability and the versatility of a utility vehicle
Hyundai Motor is expanding the N and N Line lineup to 18 models through 2022...
UK Pricing And Specifications For New Sportage Announced By Kia
Updated version of Kias best-selling model in the UK
Upgraded infotainment system and active driver aids
Cutting-edge EcoDynamics mild-hybrid 48-volt technology on 2.0-litre CRDi engine, priced from £32,545
Efficient new 1.6-litre U3 diesel p...
New GT-Line Models And Eight-Speed Auto Gearbox Enhance Looks And Efficiency Of New Kia Sorento
Updated third-generation flagship SUV for Kia in the UK
New GT-Line and GT-Line S variants add a sporty flourish
New eight-speed auto gearbox replaces former six-speed unit
Eight-speed auto reduces fuel consumption and emissions
Seven seats and...