It is a high-performance version of Hyundai Kona, which is scheduled to be released in 2021.
The pictures released by Hyundai don’t show much, but we can see that the Kona N boasts exclusive alloy wheels and bigger tailpipes.
Hyundai Kona N flat-out at the Nurburgring
Hyundai KONA N Prototype Track Test with Porsche Cayman
All-new KONA N with 8-speed N DCT
Hyundai Motor has revealed new details of the all-new KONA N.
The company’s first high-performance SUV will be available with an eight-speed wet-type Dual-Clutch Transmission, known as N DCT, providing high-performance features for even more fun-to-drive.
N DCT provides the engaging experience of a sequential gearbox with the convenience of an automatic transmission.
The addition of the N DCT allows us to expand on the N brand’s ‘Fun to Drive’ philosophy. By integrating it into the all-new KONA N, we’re enabling all sorts of high-performance driving features and turning the KONA N into a true ‘hot SUV.’
Andreas-Christoph HofmannVice President of Marketing & Product at Hyundai Motor Europe
The all-new KONA N comes with the N DCT, which adds a separate gear-shifting control logic to the 8DCT, to maximize the dynamic sensibilities and performance of this all-new high-performance SUV.
N DCT: Specially developed for high-performance driving
N DCT is the enhanced version of the company’s in-house developed 8DCT, an eight-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission. To make it suitable for N models, the 8DCT received improvements in durability, allowing it to handle the demands of high-performance vehicles. With the 2.0-litre T-GDI engine, it gives the best performance by applying unique gear ratios. The transmission control unit is calibrated for N, resulting in faster shifting and enabling a range of exclusive driving features.
Hyundai’s N DCT technology was first offered in the VELOSTER N, a model available in North America and Korea, and came to the new i30 N as a result of the valuable feedback of the Hyundai N community. In the case of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai has specified all units with N DCT.
Wet-type transmission for better cooling during racetrack driving
The wet-type DCT is structurally similar to a manual transmission, making it similarly efficient at power delivery and shifting response. As opposed to a dry-type gearbox, the wet-type DCT uses two electrical oil pumps to reduce the amount of friction between the moving parts and for a better cooling of the clutch, thus allowing a higher amount of torque to transfer through the gearbox.
The wet-type DCT uses two electrical oil pumps to reduce the amount of friction between the moving parts and for a better cooling of the clutch, thus allowing a higher amount of torque to transfer through the gearbox.
The electric pump system is composed of the High Flow Electric Oil Pump, which is responsible for gear lubrication and clutch cooling, and the High Pressure Electric Oil Pump, which supplies oil to the accumulator and maintains the pressure needed to control the gear shifting. Together, they ensure that the wet DCT can function with minimum engine power loss, thus resulting in better fuel economy as a welcome side effect. This new, updated pump system increases the number of applications for the wet N DCT, making it optimal for high-torque applications. The benefits are twofold: This system results in improved performance by increasing the maximum torque allowance, and the vehicle is more fun to drive due to increased power transmission efficiency and acceleration performance.
In addition to its increased performance, the application of N DCT also improves driving dynamics. The coolant oil consistently keeps the clutch at the optimum operating temperature, preventing overheating during high-performance driving when the car is being pushed to its limits. However, even on congested roads or steep inclines where the transmission undergoes increased exertion, N DCT will guarantee a smooth and stable journey.
The DCT is structurally similar to the MT, making it similarly excellent in power delivery efficiency and shifting responsiveness.
N DCT introduces even more high-performance driving features
The N DCT enables exclusive high-performance functions that are sure to bring a grin to the driver’s face: N Power Shift, N Grin Shift and N Track Sense Shift. These features are enhancing the car capabilities by using a dedicated shift logic management.
N Power Shift (NPS) engages when the car accelerates with more than 90 percent of throttle, thereby mitigating any reduction in torque during upshifts to deliver maximum power to the wheels. This enhances fun to drive by giving a “push feel” when upshifting. The accompanying bang sound coming from the partial cylinder cut of the exhaust underlines the sporty performance.
N Grin Shift (NGS) maximises engine and DCT performance for 20 seconds. In order to get maximum acceleration, the car will directly shift down to the most appropriate gear. To activate, the driver pushes a dedicated button on the steering wheel, and a countdown begins on the cluster showing the remaining seconds for this function. After the “boost” has ended, drivers must wait at least 40 seconds to use it again. This feature allows the driver to use the full potential of the car with only one button – for example, when chasing for the best lap time. It can also be a benefit when overtaking or merging on a highway.
Finally, N Track Sense Shift (NTS) optimises adaptive shift for racetrack driving, helping the driver to focus more on the steering. It recognises when the conditions are optimal for dynamic driving on a racetrack and activates automatically. Based on motorsport data combined with the driver’s behaviour, the car selects the right gear and shift timing in sport driving conditions to provide optimal performance, just like a professional race car driver.
These dedicated N features are in addition to five different drive modes of the N Grin Control System: Normal, Eco, Sport, N and Custom.
Unlike with a traditional automatic transmission vehicle, in Hyundai vehicles with N DCT, the driver can choose to turn off the creep function. When the creep function is turned “off” and the car is in gear D, the car does not automatically roll when the brake pedal is released. Depending on the driver, this racetrack feature can also be useful to enhance comfort and convenience. Creep off mode can be activated or deactivated via the N custom settings.
The all-new KONA N with N DCT also offers drivers the option to switch to real manual mode using the paddle shifters or the gear knob. The memory logic will prevent the transmission from automatically upshifting when the RPM limit is reached. That way, manual control allows the driver to sustain high revs when needed for an even sportier driving experience.
N DCT completes extensive test program
N DCT was tested on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife for approximately 1,350 laps for durability alone during its development phase. The wet DCT was optimised for top endurance in order to handle the demands of high-performance vehicles.
The iconic Nürburgring racetrack is known as one of the world’s most challenging racetracks. With 73 corners and 20.8 kilometres of tarmac, it is also a motorsport complex and home to Hyundai’s own testing centre. Hyundai’s accelerated durability tests are conducted there. Each car taking part in these tests laps the Nürburgring at least 480 times (10,000 km) in both dry and wet conditions, simulating up to 180,000 km of severe driving in just five to six weeks. The constant combination of hard acceleration, rapid deceleration, and heavy cornering push the vehicles to their limits, and the variable surfaces and camber ensure top performance even in adverse conditions.
KONA N: a ‘hot SUV’ with 280 PS and N DCT
The all-new KONA N featuring N DCT will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N family, Hyundai’s high-performance, motorsport-inspired line-up. It combines the uncompromising performance of an N model with the comfort and convenience of an SUV. Performance lovers will appreciate the 2.0 T‑GDI engine with 280 PS. It features flat power characteristic that provides more torque and power at mid and high-range RPM’s. The new higher amount of torque is utilising more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving situations. The new engine power characteristic also improves acceleration in the mid- and high-speed range and delivers a consistently high performance, even in a variety of outside temperature conditions.
More information will be revealed soon.
This is Hyundai Motor’s Kona N.
Hyundai Motor reveals all-new KONA N
- The all-new KONA N will be the first SUV to join the Hyundai N family
- The ‘hot SUV’ will deliver the fun-to-drive feeling of Hyundai N models with the uncompromising versatility of an SUV
- KONA N is the second Hyundai N model in Europe to be equipped with N DCT, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission
- KONA N incorporates several high-performance driving features dedicated to Hyundai N models, including Launch Control and N Grin Control System
Summary
Hyundai Motor has unveiled the all-new KONA N, an urban compact high-performance ‘hot SUV’ that combines exhilarating performance with a balanced day-to-day driving experience. It is the first SUV model to join the N brand line-up and is set apart by its SUV body type paired with powerful, N-specific driving features.
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Hyundai N | N Day – The all-new KONA N World Premiere
The all-new KONA N combines the fun-to-drive experience of a hot hatch with the versatility of an SUV: Drivers will appreciate its powerful engine and emotional sound experience, while also benefitting from the perfect size and practicality for urban life, including an extensive list of safety features. The all-new KONA N will appeal to active customers looking for a high-performance vehicle that suits the various needs of different lifestyles, including an exhilarating experience on the racetrack.
The ‘hot SUV’ was developed to offer customers uncompromising performance alongside the fun-to-drive philosophy of N brand, together with core SUV values of comfort, convenience, and safety. The latest member of the N brand comes with a four-cylinder 2.0 T-GDI 280 PS flat power engine and a highly distinctive, sporty design. Various motorsport-inspired features contribute to an all-around dynamic driving experience. These include lightweight, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, special sports seats, and an emotional sound experience. The 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (N DCT) allows for an even more sporty, high-performance character.
KONA N is a true ‘hot SUV’ with the performance level of a hot hatch. It breaks the rule that SUVs cannot be fun to drive. As an N model, it goes beyond the limits of an ordinary SUV. KONA N can carve corners on the racetrack and bring excitement to everyday driving.
Albert BiermannPresident and Head of R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group
To embody the N product philosophy with its three pillars – corner rascal, everyday sports car, and race track capability – the all-new KONA N comes with a range of high-performance functionalities: Electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) and its various Electronic Stability Control (ESC) modes have been optimised to improve cornering. Traction Mode ensures that traction can be established across a variety of road conditions while N Grin Control System offers five drive modes across all N models (Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom) contribute to its everyday sports car character. Finally, features such as Launch Control or Creep Off ensure full racetrack capability.
KONA N design makes for a powerful presence on the road
The all-new KONA N is a ‘hot SUV’, whose look clearly speaks about a powerful presence and driving fun. It combines the modern design of the new KONA base car with the bold and dynamic language of N models. With a 4,215-mm length, 1,800-mm width, and 1,565-mm height, the all-new KONA N is 10 mm longer than the new KONA and just as long as the new KONA sporty N Line trim. At 2,600 mm, the wheelbase, compared with the base car, remains unchanged. A total of 361 litres of storage space supports a range of outdoor activities. Designed with a focus on maximum weight reduction and high strength, the lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels add to a great stance and very sporty appearance.
Exterior design
The exterior design features understated design elements with N-exclusive red accents. The combination of body-coloured claddings and 19-inch wheels provides KONA N with its wide, confident stance. The body-coloured fenders, meanwhile, emphasise the rich volume of the B-SUV’s muscular body, giving KONA N a close-to-the-ground appearance. An exclusive front grille design, with its dedicated mesh, an integrated N logo, and the aggressive light signature of the new KONA, complete the vehicle’s powerful front-on appearance. The Hyundai emblem in dark satin grey was moved down from the bonnet to lower the front focal point.
To the side, customers will notice how the all-new KONA N’s sporty silhouette is emphasised by a low-ride height. Several other design cues indicate that this is a high-performance Hyundai N model, including N exclusive forged wheels with a dark satin grey finish and red callipers, an N logo on the wheel cap, and an exclusive side sill in red with an engraved N logo.
At the rear, the large, double-wing roof spoiler dominates the view, providing the necessary balance to keep the car on the road. Customers will also notice the iconic triangular third brake light. The red accent line and two large exhaust mufflers further emphasise the performance spirit.
For the launch of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai developed a new exterior colour: Sonic Blue. Sonic Blue is set between white and light grey, tinted with Performance Blue. It has been developed to be optimized for an SUV body type while still referencing the dedicated Hyundai high-performance colour Performance Blue. The exclusive new N SUV colour complements and contrasts with the other red, dark grey, and glossy black exterior design elements, giving the all-new KONA N a sporty new look. KONA N is also available in Performance Blue, which is exclusive to N models.
All-new KONA N exterior colours:
- Sonic Blue – the new N SUV dedicated colour – with Tomato Red accents [launch colour]
- Phantom Black Pearl
- Atlas White
- Cyber Grey Metallic
- Dark Knight Grey Pearl
- Ignite Red
- Performance Blue
Interior design
Inside, the all-new KONA N offers a performance-oriented look and feel optimised for high-performance driving. It is equipped with high-quality materials and metal pedals. One feature that stands out is the N-exclusive sport steering wheel, which features a design optimised for the perfect grip and button layout necessary for dynamic driving. Two customisable N buttons on the steering wheel allow for any type of pre-set to be mapped according to individual needs for even more ease of operation, and paddle shifters make it possible for the driver to switch gears without taking their hands off the wheel.
The handbrake features non-slip perforated leather and a thicker grip area for a more secure braking performance. Customers will also notice the exclusive Performance Blue as well as N logos throughout the car: on the gear shift, hand brake, door scuff, and seats.
The all-new KONA N is available with an exclusive N colour package featuring one-tone Black with cloth, leather, or suede sports bucket seats with pronounced side bolsters for excellent lateral support. All three seat types come with standard heated front seats and optional heated rear seats, and the suede trim comes additionally with standard electric/power seats, which is optional for cloth and leather. Suede seats additionally come standard with ventilated front seats for added comfort, which is also optional for leather.
Interior colour:
- One-tone Black interior with Performance Blue accents and cloth, leather or suede seats
Powertrain: 280 PS of flat power paired with N DCT
The all-new KONA N is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre T-GDI engine with a power output of 280 PS and a maximum torque of 392 Nm. It features flat power that provides more torque and power at mid and high-range RPMs. The new higher amount of torque utilises more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving situations. The new engine power characteristic also improves acceleration in the mid and high-speed range and delivers high performance consistently, even in a variety of outside temperature conditions.
The all-new KONA N is available with N DCT, an 8-speed, wet-type transmission with two separated clutches for better acceleration and a faster upshift. The wet type clutches further provide for better cooling. Hyundai’s N DCT technology was first offered in the VELOSTER N, a model available in North America and Korea, and came to the new Hyundai i30 N because of the valuable feedback of the Hyundai N community. In the case of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai has specified all units with N DCT.
The N DCT enables three exclusive high-performance functions that are sure to bring a grin to the driver’s face: N Power Shift, N Grin Shift, and N Track Sense Shift. These features enhance the car’s capabilities by using dedicated shift logic management.
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