Hyundai Kona N takes on hot-hatch segment

Even as Hyundai Motor Co. leans into an electric future, it's stretching the bounds of internal-combustion offerings with the Kona N performance version of its popular subcompact crossover.

Hyundai, which promotes the N division as an outgrowth of its motorsports activity, said Tuesday that the Kona N will be its first crossover to undergo the transformation to track-ready "corner rascal."

"Kona N is a true hot SUV with the performance level of a hot hatch. It breaks the rule that SUVs are less fun to drive," said Albert Biermann, president and head of Hyundai Motor Group's R&D unit. "Kona N can carve corners on the racetrack and bring excitement to everyday driving."

The latest Kona variant comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 276 hp. It's mated to a wet, dual-clutch automatic transmission with eight gears and paddle shifters. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph comes in less than 5.5 seconds with launch control activated.

"The transmission control unit is calibrated for N, resulting in faster shifting and enabling a range of exclusive driving features ― including N Grin Shift, N Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift — that maximize driving exhilaration," Hyundai said.

While the non-performance Kona is offered in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, Hyundai said the N version will be fwd only for simplicity and to keep pricing competitive. Hyundai's other N vehicle in the U.S., the Veloster N subcompact hatchback, is also fwd only.

The Kona performance model also comes with unique interior features that include a new 10-inch infotainment and digital cluster system with an exclusive racing head-up display that adds a gamelike dimension to driving under N or Sport drive modes.

"Just like popular racing video games, Kona N has customizable N buttons," Hyundai said.

On the exterior, the new Kona model is dressed for the part of hot hatch.

"Kona N's front lip spoiler, double-wing roof spoiler and side skirts enhance aerodynamic efficiency and provide styling cues that declare its racetrack readiness," the company said. "The wide lower air intake dominates the front bumper with a shape inspired by an aeronautic fuselage, providing much-needed engine cooling during hot laps."

The Kona also is equipped with Hyundai's full suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, blind-spot collision avoidance and lane-keep assist. The Kona N further comes with traction control for different terrain conditions, including mud and snow.

Hyundai didn't provide pricing or an on-sale date for the Kona N in the U.S.

Hyundai also hinted at plans to add N variants to new-energy vehicles during a digital showcase called "Hyundai N Day."

"Our continuously growing and more balanced N portfolio will open new high-performance options, delivering the 'grin factor' no matter what the propulsion technology or body type may be," said Thomas Schemera, executive vice president and head of the customer experience division at Hyundai Motor Co.