Hyundai Kona N debuts as a crossover-like hot hatch

Hyundai likes calling its Kona N a performance SUV, but its complete lack of AWD only partially compensated by an e-LSD makes us think more along the lines of “hot hatchback”.

Most of the powertrain stems from the i30 N, including the 2.0-liter turbo engine rated at 280 PS (276 hp / 206 kW) and 392 Nm (289 lb-ft) of torque. However, while the i30 N ships with manual and dual-clutch transmission options, eight-speed DCT is the only one available for the Kona N.

The gearbox supports three modes: for daily driving, for the racetrack, and for the fastest switching possible. The engine briefly gains 10 PS (10 hp / 7.5 kW) in the latter mode.

With launch control on, the car reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds before maxing out at 240 km/h (149 mph). The i30 N is slightly slower on the uptake with the exact same powertrain (sprint time 5.9 seconds), but reaches a higher top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Compared side-by-side with the standard Kona, the performance model boasts tweaked and lowered suspension, 19-inch forged wheels, a body kit, different bumpers, side sill extensions, red accents, a two-tier rear spoiler with a triangular brake light on it, and enlarged exhaust tips.

Inside, there are sport seats, an infotainment system with some added menu items, a conventional handbrake instead of a button, extra controls on the steering wheel, a digital dash cluster, and a heads-up display with a special UI.