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Hyundai's performance N-division is on an upward trajectory. We recently woke to the news of not one, but two concept models that look absolutely stunning. Both the electric/hydrogen Vision 74 - which pays homage to the 1974 Hyundai Pony Coupe concept - and the RN22e based on the recently-unveiled IONIQ 6 point at the future of Hyundai N. Great to see the intent on making the N-brand a part of the performance automotive landscape, well into the future.
However, today's subject is that of the Kona N, the South Korean marque's take on the compact performance SUV topic. Being the company's first SUV/Crossover for the enthusiast, the Kona N takes all the learnings from the i30 N and crams them into a higher riding, but decidedly more popular body form. And it's not the bad idea you'd think it'd be. It's said to also follow on the N division's three design pillars - corner rascal, everyday sports car, and racetrack capability. Quite apt adages in fact, as we came to discover during our test tenure.
Cosmetically, the Kona N looks ever so sharper than its regular siblings. Thanks to a slightly hunkered down stance, 19" alloy wheels wrapped in 235/40 profile tyres, which house red N-emblazoned brake callipers. There are signature red piping elements on the front splitter, while the gloss black N mesh grille, together with the deeper lower airdam aids better cooling. At the rear, dual-circular bazooka tailpipes emit an awesome battle cry when the exhaust flaps are opened.
The cabin appointments are very similar to the i30 N, with N-embroidered leather seats. The tiller, replete with N performance-enhancing buttons, is both functional and awesome to handle. There is an infotainment screen with various functions, including the tailoring of performance parameters like steering weighting, engine response, and suspension firmness. Aluminium foot pedals remind you that this is, indeed, no garden-variety Kona. Overall build quality is exemplary at worst and the cabin architecture is very driver-centric in execution.
Cabin appointments are quite commendable. Well-laid out, legible and with exemplary tactile quality. Those alcantara festooned seats are not only sumptuous, but offer excellent support, thanks to an exemplary scope for adjustment. There are N motifs peppered about the cabin to heighten the ambiance and remind occupants of the model's pecking order. It truly is a well-thought out, driver-centric cabin that is bereft of frills and garish designed items.
Under the bonnet still beats that familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 206 kW and 392 Nm via a slick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Power goes to the front wheels only, while an eLSD is in place to keep the front wheels in check when on it. Performance SUVs are somewhat of a misnomer, but manufacturers continue to refine the recipe to become even more delectable for those shopping in this segment. The Kona N is no exception to the rule as it manages to blend the practicality of a small SUV with the performance of a hot-hatch.
Out on the road, the Kona N, from the onset, feels a tad stiffer than its siblings, even in its slackest suspension settings. The steering is mostly light in operation and does tend to feel a little too artificial in its sportiest setting, I found Comfort mode offered the best compromise here. Meanwhile, the adaptive suspension can be switched from "bearable" to overly stiff and jarring in ESC Sport mode. Thankfully, you can customise each parameter, via the two blue buttons on the steering wheel, so you can keep the suspension in Sport, which is perfect for on-road performance exploits.
While I am a huge proponent for manual transmissions – I absolutely adored the pre-facelift i30 N for this – I was a touch concerned that the new automatic transmission would just neuter the entire package. It'd seem that could have been a bit misplaced. While I'm yet to drive the updated i30 N with the self-shifting 'box, and if this Kona N is anything to go by, then not all is lost. Performance wise, the engine is great. It's linear and punchy for the most part, with just a hint of turbo lag at the bottom of the rev range. However, once the tacho needle sweeps above 3,000 r/min, the Kona N becomes a proper mover and shaker, all the while emitting satisfying exhaust belches between gearshifts.
Straightline performance is one thing, but where this little rascal truly impresses, is in the way it carves through corners. It remains keen to play corner tug, relishing being pitched into corners with enthusiasm. Yes, there's a slight hint of body roll, but not much to detract from the overall dynamic experience. With power only going to the front wheels, torque steer is prevalent as the electronics try their darndest to quell the steering tugging in your hands, and I reckon a mechanical LSD as that used in the i30 N would be better suited here, too.
Playing in its own niche space, the Kona N comes with a comprehensive list of standard equipment at the price. These also include a panoramic sunroof and an alphabet soup of safety equipment to boot. In addition, you also get a standard 7-year factory warranty, which should add much needed peace of mind. The service plan of 5-year /75 000km is a tad below par, which is perhaps the only fly in this ownership ointment. A deal breaker, then? Not at all, but it is something to keep at the back of one's mind.
That aside, though, the Kona N is an absolute hoot to drive and will appease those who prefer their performance car with a bit more ground clearance. Personally, I am leaning towards the i30 N, because, well, the pre-facelift model truly left an indelible impression. At R749,900, the Kona N has no direct competitors, which should definitely play in its favour. In isolation, though, the Kona N is yet another sterling product from Hyundai's performance division.
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