Next week, Hyundai dealers will start offering a unique model that should earn a look from several different types of shoppers. The Hyundai Kona N will start at $35,425, plus a $1,225 destination charge.
The 2022 Kona it’s based on is a successful subcompact SUV that critics love for its tight driving manners and good value proposition. It offers a lot of standard equipment in a small footprint. And it’s available in a huge price range with many different personalities – from a practical economy crossover starting around $21,000 to a well-equipped all-electric model pushing $40,000.
But the Kona N is something new. It’s a high-performance version of the little SUV.
Many automakers will offer high-performance editions of their compact sedans this year. Hyundai’s own Elantra N is set to do battle with new 2022 editions of the Honda Civic Si, VW Golf R, and others.
But few automakers outside the luxury classes have ever given the same sporty treatment to a crossover. There’s no Honda HR-V Si. No VW Taos R.
}
Turbo Boosts Power to 276 Horses
The Kona N features a 276-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with rev-matching and paddle shifters. Power goes to the front wheels. A limited-slip differential helps it corner with more aggression than most subcompact crossovers. An electronically-controlled suspension – also a rarity at this price point – should keep it from bouncing around too much in hard driving.
Here is where we would normally list out a few similar vehicles for shoppers to consider. But that’s just the thing. There aren’t any.
The Kona N might be worth a look to those considering a high-performance sedan or hatchback. It’s a unique way to get a higher riding position and slightly more cargo space while still lining up against those speedy compact sedans. Without all-wheel-drive, it’s not truly a rival for the coming rebirth of the Subaru WRX. But it might earn consideration from Civic Type R shoppers, or even win over a few buyers from the Elantra N across the showroom.
Time will tell. But, if it works, we’d love to see some rivals.
Class of 2022: All the New and Redesigned Cars, Trucks, and SUVs
