Hyundai Kona N Teased Further With Juicy Details

The all-new Hyundai Kona N was first confirmed back in January and it will make its official debut later in 2021. In the meantime, the company is giving us more pictures and technical details to whet our appetite.

Similar to the Veloster N, the Kona N will feature an eight-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission (N DCT) specifically developed for Hyundai’s N models. This transmission will come standard, so our hopes of a manual gearbox are pretty much crushed.  

Hyundai says the N DCT received enhancements in durability and allows faster shifting whether in automatic or manual mode (via paddle shifters on the steering wheel). It boasts specially tuned gear ratios and a new, updated pump system.

What’s more, the coolant oil consistently keeps the clutch at the optimum operating temperature, reducing the risk of overheating during high-performance driving when the Kona N is being pushed to its limits (steep inclines, track driving, etc.).

Photo: Hyundai

Another good news for performance enthusiasts are the three unique functions of the N DCT:

  • N Power Shift (NPS) engages when accelerating with more than 90 percent throttle, mitigating any reduction in torque during upshifts.
  • N Grin Shift (NGS) boosts torque by 7 percent for 20 seconds. It’s as easy as pushing a button on the steering wheel, and a countdown begins on the instrument cluster showing the remaining seconds for this function. 
  • N Track Sense Shift (NTS) optimizes adaptive shift for racetrack driving so you can focus more on steering. Sensors detect when the conditions are optimal and activate the function automatically.

276 Horsepower

As previously announced, the Hyundai Kona N will use the same engine as the Veloster N, namely a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder. It’s going to have “approximately 276 horsepower,” the company says, and most of that power will be enjoyed at medium and higher revs. Torque is not specified at the moment.

Photo: Hyundai

Among small SUVs from mainstream brands, you won’t find a stronger contender. The closest rival is the new Mazda CX-30 Turbo with up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet.

When it goes on sale for the 2022 model year, the Hyundai Kona N will join not only the Veloster N but also the Elantra N to create a trio of performance cars at Hyundai. Don’t miss the world premiere in the coming weeks!

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