Overview
This year, Hyundai’s N performance subbrand takes on its first SUV: the Kona subcompact crossover. The division’s engineers have already worked their magic on the Veloster hatchback, and the result impressed us with its turbocharged, 275-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, sporty suspension, and sharp handling—all of which we expect to find in the Kona N. We haven’t seen the cabin yet, but all the typical sporty elements are present on the exterior: blacked-out grille, creased and hole-punched hood, large front air intakes, sleek and simple light signatures, N badges, low-profile tires, a dual exhaust, and a red pinstripe along the bottom edges of the spoiler, side skirts, and diffuser. Look for updates on the Kona N here in the coming weeks.
What’s New for 2022?
The Kona N will make its debut this spring and arrive at dealerships by year’s end.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Hyundai hasn’t announced pricing for this hotted-up SUV, but based on the N-model premium for the Veloster, we’d wager the performance gear will add at least 10 grand to the regular Kona’s $22,000 base price.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Behind the Kona N’s aggressive-looking, well-vented nose sits the same 275-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that motivates the sportiest Veloster. We don’t yet know which wheels the engine will power—just the front pair or all four—but we do know an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic will handle the shifting duties. The crossover won’t offer its smaller sibling’s six-speed manual transmission, however.
As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:
- Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
- Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
- Infotainment and Connectivity
- Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Unless Hyundai decides to stray from its typical protection plans, you can expect the Kona N will receive the same impressive coverage as the automaker’s other models.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles
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