Publications
• Hyundai SA confirmed the high-performance Kona N will arrive in 2022.
• The original Kona was first launched locally in 2018.
• The N model will likely employ a turbocharged 2.0-litre GDI engine with power figures of 205kW and 392Nm.
• For more motoring stories, go to Wheels24
Since its local introduction in 2018, the Kona has become a steady fixture in Hyundai's local line-up.
The Korean brand recently launched the enhanced version of the crossover in various trim levels, and they've confirmed that the high-performance Kona N will arrive locally in the first quarter of 2022.
Following in the footsteps of its i30 N hot hatch, the SUV will likely employ a turbocharged 2.0-litre GDI engine with power figures of 205kW and 392Nm, mated to an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. As far as performance goes, Hyundai says it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 240km/h.
Here comes a new challenger
Other than its performance credentials, the N model features a number of aesthetic upgrades like a revised front and rear bumper, front lip and double-wing roof spoiler, side skirts and meaty 19-inch alloy wheels. On the inside will be brand-specific details such as the Performance Blue colour accents, seats, steering wheel, shift knob and metal pedals.
Other bits include a 10-inch infotainment and digital cluster system featuring a head-up display (HUD) where the driver can toggle between N or Sport drive modes.
READ: Hyundai teases the first official images of its high-performance Elantra N sedan
The i30 is currently the only other N model sold in South Africa, though the Veloster, i20 and Elantra also have high-performance versions in other markets.
Local pricing and specification is still unknown at this point, but Hyundai South Africa hopes to give local petrol heads more option with the arrival of its new Kona N in 2022.
