Hyundai Kona N 2022: arrives packing 206kW and a dual-clutch transmission

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Hyundai’s N performance brand is expanding rapidly and the Kona is the next to receive the go-fast treatment. 

Available in both regular N and N Premium grades, the Kona offers a unique proposition to buyers as it currently has few competitors. 

Paired exclusively with a dual-clutch transmission, the N starts at $47,500 before on roads, with the N Premium coming in at $50,500 before on roads. 

Engine and performance parts 

The Hyundai Hona N comes fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 206kW of power and 392Nm of torque which matches the outputs of the now updated i30 N hatch and fastback.

Like the i30 N, the Kona N comes standard with a variable exhaust which allows drivers to live out their inner WRC fantasies.

The eight-speed dual clutch gearbox is new to the Kona N and the only available option on the Kona model. N Grin Shift has been built in to push outputs to 213kW for 20 second periods. This quick burst of energy can be tapped into over and over, as long as you give the system the necessary 40 second cool down in between. 

Those who crave a bit more mechanical feel free in their driving will also appreciate the N Power shift that is said to give drivers that ‘shove in the back’ moment similar to a manual gear shift.

Unlike the i20 N, which uses a mechanical limited-slip differential, the Kona N utilises an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, which aids cornering grip and overall performance. 

As always, multiple drive modes are available, all of which are customisable in order to give an individualised feel. N Mode allows drivers to monitor the performance of the vehicle on the go. 

Besides extra body reinforcement, the Kona N also features electronic control suspension – or as many would call adaptive dampers. These have been tuned specifically for Australian roads with the aim of providing a comfortable yet sporty ride. 

The Kona N features 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235/40R19 Pirelli P Zero rubber – a bespoke tyre developed in partnership between Hyundai and Pirelli. Hidden within are 360mm front brake rotors which are 55mm larger than the 1.6-litre turbocharged Kona.

Interior

The Kona N comes standard with both a 10.25-inch driving instrument cluster as well as a 10.25-inch multimedia display. Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard fitment, along with a harmon kardon speaker system, leather N sports steering wheel, sports seats and a wireless charging pad. 

See below for optional equipment in the interior. 

Safety 

Along with six airbags, the Kona N features an array of active safety systems, including forward collision avoidance assistance, smart cruise control and driver attention warning. 

Lane keep assist, lane follow assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist, safe exit warning, high beam assist and rear occupant alert are also standard on the Kona N. 

Options, extras, warranty and servicing

Out of the box the Kona N packs a lot of goodies but the N Premium takes things up a notch for an extra $3,000. 

Along with all the standard features, the N Premium also receives a head up display, suede/leather seats, power driver and passenger seats with heating and ventilation function, a heated steering wheel, glass sunroof and ambient lighting.

Metallic paint is a $595 optional extra, as is Matte paint which is $1000. 

The Kona N comes with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty and servicing is part of the Hyundai lifetime plan which is $335 a year for five years. 

Hyundai Kona N 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• Kona N: $47,500
• Kona N Premium: $50,500