The all-new Kona N variant debuts with the facelift, and Hyundai gives us a glimpse.
In September 2020, just a short while before Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) launched the first Kona in Malaysia, the facelifted model was shown. With the facelifted Hyundai Kona came the possibility of doing something a little zestier – hence the Hyundai Kona N variant was promised. Hyundai N variants on the company’s mass-market models are really starting to be pushed hard.
Last year alone, we saw the introduction of the Hyundai Sonata N Line, Elantra N Line, i20 N Line, and Tucson N Line too.
From these teaser images it can be seen that the Hyundai Design Centre has worked on the details and big picture to deliver something fresh. The grille sports a unique Y-pattern mesh with a little ‘N’ badge. The Hyundai logo has been brought down to this grille from the hood. Where the logo lies in the original model now there are three air intakes.
Red highlights adorn the bottom sections of the Kona N. Front and rear, these red elements are introduced to give the design a bit of a sport ‘pop’. Round back, a large diffuser is flanked by 2 large, circular exhaust mufflers. There’s also a triangular third brake light up top – standard fare on N models. Above that, a functional large double-wing roof spoiler sits and provides more downforce.
It’s not likely HSDM will bring this Hyundai Kona N into the market, but we might see elements of the body kit be distilled down and find their way in one way or another.
Here’s the press release with more.
PRESS RELEASE
Hyundai Motor has revealed a glimpse of the all-new KONA N without its camouflage disguise. In a series of teaser images, fans and enthusiasts can enjoy a first look at the latest member of the brand’s high-performance N range.
The all-new KONA N will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N brand line-up, and the first N model with an SUV body type.
As the first images reveal, the ‘hot SUV’ boasts a sporty appearance, further emphasised by its wide, low stance. For the very first time, the Hyundai N division and Hyundai Design Center worked together to develop on an SUV body type, creating a product that clearly represents a powerful presence and driving fun. The all-new KONA N combines the modern design of the recently launched new KONA with the bold and dynamic language of the company’s N models.
The front view is dominated by large, sporty and iconic air intakes, and the new light signature gives Hyundai’s latest high-performance model an aggressive, powerful appearance. The lower grille defines the character of the bumper fascia: its shape is inspired by an aeronautic fuselage and extends to the side of the car, emphasising its aerodynamic efficiency and speed. An N logo on the unique upper grille completes the look.
At the rear, a large double-wing roof spoiler for enhanced downforce gives spice to the rear view. It also incorporates a third, triangular brake light, as is customary with N models. Large N dual exhaust mufflers fully express the model’s high-performance spirit. Lower down on the rear bumper, a large diffuser enhances the airflow departure. The sporty appearance is further emphasised through body-coloured fenders, bringing KONA N visually closer to the ground.
The all-new KONA N is equipped with the eye-catching features reserved for N models, such as exclusive alloy wheels and red accents that embellish the side sills.
The all-new KONA N will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N family, Hyundai’s high-performance, motorsport-inspired line-up. It will also expand the successful Hyundai SUV family.
More information will be revealed soon.
