KONA N – Press Start To Play

Introducing KONA N, Hyundai’s first high-performance SUV and the third N model to join the Australian line-up.

KONA N is the latest product from the multi-award-winning Hyundai N division, featuring the full complement of N-signature high-performance technologies, developed to deliver ultimate capability on road and circuit and, most importantly… deliver maximum fun.

KONA N is offered in two variants, each powered by a potent 206kW, 392Nm 2.0-litre ‘flat power’ turbo driving the front wheels via a paddle-shift eight-speed wet-clutch N DCT transmission and an electronically controlled limited slip differential.

Every KONA N benefits from locally tuned electronically controlled suspension (ECS) and wears 19-inch alloys wrapped in bespoke ‘HN’ compound Pirelli P Zeros.

KONA N is one of the most engaging driver’s SUVs available at any price point, and – for now – is the quickest N model in the Hyundai range.

“With the addition of the practical and racetrack-capable high-performance KONA N, as part of a technology-packed KONA line-up which also includes the zero-emission KONA EV, we now offer a compact SUV for every customer,” Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Executive Officer Jun Heo said.

“KONA N enters the market with no direct competitors, which represents a prime opportunity not only for the N brand, but for a nameplate that is already one of our most successful,” he said.

KONA N: Range Overview

With high-performance and fun as standard, and a choice from two grades, it’s easy for customers to find the right KONA N.

Every KONA N ensures the driver is fully connected to the action as well as the outside world, with a 10.25-inch Satellite Navigation multimedia unit and a 10.25-inch Supervision full LCD digital virtual instrument cluster.

There’s also a standard Harman Kardon eight-speaker premium audio system featuring DAB+ digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, and a Wireless (Qi standard) charging pad.

An extensive standard SmartSense^TM suite includes the following driver assistance and advanced active safety technologies:

• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
• High Beam Assist (HBA)
• Lane Following Assist (LFA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
• Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Parking Distance Warning – Reverse (PDW)
• Rear View Monitor

KONA N brings a motorsport-inspired look thanks to a full body kit and 19-inch alloys, with eye-catching LED headlights, daytime running lights (DRLs), indicators and taillights.

KONA N Premium brings, in addition, power driver and passenger seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, suede and leather upholstery, and a glass sunroof.

Premium variants also feature a Head-up display (HUD), a front parking distance warning system and ambient interior lighting.

EXTERIOR

A series of N-specific exterior styling elements signal KONA N’s high-performance intent.

An N-specific grille featuring a blacked-out Hyundai logo gives KONA N an aggressive visage befitting of the ultimate performance variant – and it’s underscored by a front lip featuring a coloured insert.

At each side, body-coloured cladding and N side skirts are teamed with 19-inch machined-face alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tyres, with black mirror caps providing the finishing touch.

A split-channel spoiler with N triangular LED brake light adds an athletic look at the rear, which is tied together with a diffuser featuring a coloured insert, and dual exhaust outlets.

Seven exterior colours are available, including striking monochromatic shades Atlas White, Cyber Grey, Dark Night and Phantom Black, the N-Specific Performance Blue and unique Gravity Gold, and the searing Ignite Flame.

INTERIOR

High-performance styling elements, creature comforts, and an array of safety and convenience technology combine in the KONA N’s sporty cabin.

A 10.25-inch Satellite Navigation multimedia system featuring the N driving data system headlines, paired with a 10.25-inch full LCD digital virtual instrument cluster with N Mode display, to provide all the key vehicle info at a glance.

Sports front bucket seats provide the comfort and support for daily, backroad or track driving and are trimmed in black cloth or a black suede/leather combination (Premium).

They’re teamed with a leather-appointed steering wheel featuring N buttons, paddle shifters, an N shift knob with sequential shift mode, and a leather-wrapped conventional (non-electric) handbrake, with Performance Blue stitching throughout.

A High-Performance Head-Up Display (HUD) in the Premium variant presents key driving info when N mode is selected, including a tacho, shift lights, speed and gear selected, all in an easy-to-read, track-ready layout.

While HUD is available only in Premium variants, a similar display can be viewed through the driving data system on all variants. For N Custom modes, the HUD can be configured with either the standard or N display layout.

ENGINE AND DRIVETRAIN

A 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder beats at the heart of KONA N, pumping out 206kW and delivering maximum performance and flexibility thanks to a ‘Flat Power’ tuning philosophy.

The direct-injected twin-cam unit musters peak power at 5500rpm and holds it through to 6000rpm. Peak torque of 392Nm, meanwhile, is produced over a broad band from 2100 to 4700rpm.

KONA N’s flat power and torque curves make it a flexible and potent performer for day-to-day and track driving, and everything in between.

Active variable exhaust

KONA N’s active variable exhaust system has three settings linked to the various drive modes, and continuously adjusts an internal valve to modulate exhaust volume and flow based on throttle position and engine rpm.

N Mode brings a WRC-inspired soundtrack while at the other end of the spectrum, drivers can configure Custom mode to ‘all go’ with the exhaust toned down to normal levels.

N DCT

An N DCT eight-speed wet Dual Clutch Transmission features in every KONA N, offering the ease of automatic shifting, with the ability for supercar-rivalling gear shift speeds during hard driving, with rev-matched downshifts accompanied by an engaging motorsport-inspired crackle.

In addition, N DCT features three exclusive performance functions to enhance the KONA N driving experience:

N Grin Shift (NGS) boosts peak power to 213kW for 20 seconds at the press of a button. Hitting NGS will also put the N DCT into the lowest possible gear and set transmission and exhaust mapping to Sport+ mode. NGS can be activated by the driver in any drive mode and can be summoned multiple times, with a 40 second cooldown in between.

N Track Sense (NTS) monitors the driver’s inputs to automatically sense when an aggressive track driving style is adopted, and activates performance- and fun-enhancing transmission mapping accordingly.

The NTS function will drop gears on corner entry during braking, and hold gears to redline to maintain maximum drive out of corners, freeing the driver to focus on pointing and shooting. NTS is enabled when the transmission is in Sport or N Mode, and the shifter is in D. When NTS is activated the driver will be notified via the cluster.

Finally, N Power Shift (NPS) is a motorsport-inspired shift logic which provides a positive gear shift feel during hard driving. By minimizing torque dip between gears, the driver experiences an involving, manual-like shove in the back during upshifts. NPS can be experienced in N Mode or in Custom mode with Sport+ transmission setting selected.

Both NTS and NPS can be turned on or off through the performance options screen within the N Grin Control System.

N Corner Carving Differential

KONA N features an electronically controlled limited-slip differential (E-LSD) designed to provide maximum performance under acceleration and during cornering.

The E-LSD provides an optimum apportioning of torque across the front axle to maximise traction and engagement, mitigating understeer and delivering a unique corner carving feeling that’s become a signature of the Hyundai N driving experience.

The N Corner Carving Differential has two operating modes – Normal and Sport – which can be selected in N Custom mode.

N Mode

N mode lets drivers monitor the KONA N’s performance on the go, as well as changing their Custom mode settings.

Drivers can place widgets across split screens on the 10.25-inch display, to create a layout to suit their preference. There are widgets for the Launch Mode and other performance settings – all performance settings can also be accessed through the menus.

Custom mode settings can be toggled through the widget with single presses scrolling through each mode, while delving deeper brings the option of customising both Custom 1 and Custom 2 settings at the same time.

Track Maps

An all-new Track Maps feature debuts on KONA N, which lets the driver load a circuit widget onto the N Grin Control main pages. This will then provide an alert when nearing a compatible circuit.

With your track layout selected, KONA N can run an automatic lap timer triggered when you cross the start/finish line, freeing brain capacity for hitting each apex, rather than hitting a lap timer button.

At launch, KONA N will feature Sydney Motorsport Park in all layouts, supporting the two different start/finish lines. More circuits will be added in future map updates, allowing the feature to activate at major circuits around Australia.

CHASSIS, BRAKES AND SUSPENSION

Body reinforcement

The KONA N monocoque benefits from extra structural reinforcement compared with non-N variants, to support the increase in power and performance.

Additional spot welds have been applied at the attachment points of the A, B and C pillars, while underneath additional floor structures have been bolted on to increase rigidity.

New front strut rings connect the suspension into the body with more attachment points, allowing the efficient transfer of energy as well as increased torsional and overall chassis rigidity, to enhance dynamics and responsiveness.

Electronic Control Suspension

KONA N’s Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) leverages all the benefits designed into the N Power Sense Axle up front, the countless body reinforcements, and the optimised weight distribution, to deliver the ideal blend of performance and comfort.

Various G-sensors around KONA N allow the system to read the road and the vehicle’s reaction to it, and then dynamically adjust the dampers at each corner up to 200 times a second to precisely control the body and wheels.

ECS also considers the driver’s inputs, supporting dive motions during heavy braking, for example, or controlling body-roll actions when swinging through a slalom.

Because the ECS firmware has been tuned in Australia to operate seamlessly and intuitively on our challenging local roads its workings are barely perceptible – the driver will just be aware that KONA N always feels at home, from suburban street to twisty backroad.

ECS can operate in three distinct modes, offering character, control and comfort levels to suit every scenario, across the spectrum from school run to track day.

High-performance brakes

Large 360mm front disc rotors – 55mm larger than regular KONA – are fitted up front, clamped by red-painted N brake calipers.

The rear rotors also grow compared with regular KONA variants, completing a powerful brake package that can withstand a track thrashing while staying fade free.

In N Mode, with the ESC turned off, the brake override function is disabled, allowing simultaneous brake and accelerator pedal operation for left-foot braking.

Like every Hyundai N model, KONA N is fitted with a conventional manual handbrake so the driver can induce slides through tighter corners.

Pirelli P Zero tyres

KONA N wears bespoke ‘HN’ compound P Zero tyres developed in collaboration between Pirelli and Hyundai N. The 235-section rubber provides high grip and enhanced responsiveness, contributing to KONA N’s immense capability and fun-to-drive feel.

Local Chassis Tuning

The Australian chassis program for KONA N focused on tuning the Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) to deliver the signature N driving experience on Australia’s uniquely challenging urban, highway and country roads… and of course the racetrack.

The ESC settings provide the ideal blend of high-performance and comfort across the different drive modes.

“‘High-performance’ and ‘SUV’ are not often associated, yet they actually fit hand-in-racing-glove in this case,” said Hyundai Product Planning & Development Specialist, Tim Rodgers.

“Some people may look at an SUV and think of negatives that packaging might bring to the handling,” Rodgers said. “But actually with ECS we can leverage those SUV qualities to our advantage. This made KONA N a really satisfying car to tune.

“Having some extra damper stroke to play with, for example, really lets us control the car in a sophisticated way, which broadens the scope of what ECS can do [compared with a lower vehicle].”

KONA N’s relatively chunky 235/40 tyres also provide a level of compliance in the rubber that underpins great ride comfort.

“There is a little bit more sidewall in the tyres as well, so that’s a bit of an advantage for us in tuning for comfort in a dynamically focused model,” Rodgers said.

“And KONA N has a 50mm-shorter wheelbase than i30 N which actually gives it a slight edge when it comes to ultimate agility.

“The aim was to make KONA N really pliant and comfortable when it needs to be, yet also chuckable, aggressive and agile when dialed right up,” he said.

“In developing the tune of the most hardcore N Mode, we opted for maximum track-attack, building in a higher level of lift off oversteer.

“The combination of ECS with refined geometry, the E-LSD and the P Zeros gives KONA N incredible amounts of grip. The aim is for drivers of all abilities to enjoy this vehicle, on track and road. We want it to be really predictable, really fun. And KONA N can be quicker than i30 N in some situations.”

SMARTSENSE™ SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

In addition to its superb passive safety and six airbags, KONA N brings an extensive suite of SmartSense^TM advanced active safety and driver assistance technologies.

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) detects pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles ahead of KONA N using the front-mounted radar and camera, and can provide a warning to the driver or apply braking in situations where a risk of collision is detected.

Smart Cruise Control (SCC)

A Smart Cruise Control (SCC) system uses the front-mounted radar and camera to allow KONA N to match the speed of the vehicle ahead in a lane.

Controls on the steering wheel let the driver set their desired cruising speed easily, as well as adjusting the gap to vehicles in front.

SCC can be enabled at vehicle speeds between 10 and 180km/h, with a minimum set speed of 30km/h.

When KONA N approaches stopped traffic ahead it will self-cancel and prompt the driver to bring the vehicle to a stop using the brake pedal (stop and go does not feature as part of KONA N’s SCC system.)

The driver can resume SCC in moving traffic by pressing the speed adjustment toggle on the steering wheel.

An Overtaking Acceleration Assist function can activate when the driver indicates and pulls out from behind a slower vehicle ahead with SCC enabled.

Driver Attention Warning (DAW)

KONA N’s Driver Attention Warning (DAW) system monitors driver inputs and vehicle swaying motions and prompt the driver with a warning if inattentive driving is detected. DAW issues an audible alert and a visual prompt to consider taking a break from driving.

Additionally, when stopped in traffic Lead Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) will provide a prompt if traffic ahead starts moving and no response is detected from the driver.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) monitors lane markings and road edges and provides an audible warning if KONA N is getting close to the edge of a lane, and operates between 60 and 200km/h.

If the driver attempts to leave a lane without indicating, LKA will actively steer the car safely back into the lane.

Lane Following Assist (LFA)

Lane Following Assist (LFA) uses the front-mounted camera to monitor vehicles ahead and establish the centerline of the lane, to provide steering assistance to help keep KONA N in the lane. When activated, LFA operates between 60km/h and 200km/h.

Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)

KONA N’s Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) system alerts the driver to the presence of vehicles in a blind-spot zone, via a visual prompt in the side mirrors.

If the driver proceeds to indicate and initiate a lane change, BCA will issue an audible alert. If required, KONA N can actively mitigate these potential collisions by selectively applying braking to individual wheels, to steer the vehicle away from danger.

BCA uses sensors on the rear corners of KONA N to detect vehicles, and operates at vehicle speeds above 20km/h. The system can be set to ‘active’ or ‘warning-only’ modes.

Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)

KONA N’s Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) system actively mitigates potential collisions when reversing into the path of traffic. If a potential risk is detected, the system will issue audible and visual driver alerts.

In the event RCCA detects a collision is imminent, the system can bring KONA N to a stop as a preventative measure. RCCA operates when in reverse at speeds below 8km/h.

Safe Exit Warning (SEW)

A Safe Exit Warning (SEW) System in KONA N can warn occupants to prevent them exiting the vehicle when it is unsafe to do so.

SEW utilises the blind-spot safety systems to monitor traffic around KONA N. If a door is opened while an approaching vehicle is detected, the system will issue an audible alert and display a cluster message to use caution when opening the door and stepping out of the vehicle.

The system operates at vehicle speeds below 3km/h, and can detect approaching vehicles travelling at speeds above 6km/h.

Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)

A Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) system in KONA N can remind the driver when powering down and exiting the vehicle that there is a child or a pet in the second row that may be inadvertently left behind.

ROA will prompt the driver to ‘check rear seats’ if it has detected the second row was recently accessed. The system can be turned on/off in the Driver Assistance settings menu.

High Beam Assist (HBA)

A High Beam Assist (HBA) system in KONA N can automatically dip the high beam headlights to avoid dazzling the drivers of vehicles ahead.

HBA is enabled with the headlights in Auto mode, and the system is activated by pushing the stalk forward. The system uses the front-facing camera to monitor ambient lighting as well as the lights of vehicles ahead, and operates at vehicle speeds above 40km/h.

PRICING AND AFTERSALES

Pricing

Engine	Transmission	KONA N	KONA N Premium
2.0 Turbo	8 speed DCT	$47,500	$50,500

 

Options	KONA N	KONA N Premium
Metallic/Mica Paint	$595	$595
Matte Paint	$1,000	$1,000

Note: All prices are Manufacturer’s List Price. Price excludes dealer delivery and on road costs

Lifetime Service Plan

Engine	Service Interval	12 mths	24 mths	36 mths	48 mths	60 mths
2.0 T-GDi	km	10k	20k	30k	40k	50k
	Cost (incl. GST)	$335	$335	$335	$335	$335

Hyundai iCare 

iCare is our commitment to Hyundai owners, making sure their car ownership is as enjoyable, easy and extensive as imaginable. Expert service and support is provided with Hyundai’s Lifetime Service Plan so customers can enjoy exclusive service pricing with no hidden fees, Roadside Support Plan and Sat Nav Update Plan, both available up to 10 years. Plus, a suite of other owner benefits like, access to myHyundai, an online portal designed to help Hyundai owners get to know their new car and access to special offers, and the support of our dedicated customer care experts, always on hand to help with any questions or issues that customers may have. All that and the reassurance of Hyundai’s 5 Year Unlimited Km vehicle warranty providing customers with the care they need, when they need it.

Colour and Trim

Trim	Interior	Exterior
		Atlas White	Cyber Grey	Dark Knight	Phantom Black	Ignite Flame	Performance Blue	Gravity Gold
		Solid	Metallic	Mica	Mica	Solid	Solid	Matte
KONA N	Black Cloth	●	●	●	●	●	●	●
KONA N Premium	Black Suede / Leather	●	●	●	●	●	●	●

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

KONA N		2.0 Turbo DCT
Key specifications:
N-exclusive performance features:	SmartSense advanced safety:	LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
– 2.0 Turbo engine	– Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance	LED headlights and front indicators
– Active variable exhaust	Assist	LED side repeaters in mirrors
– Electronic Controlled Suspension	– Driver Attention Warning	LED tail lights
– Electro-mechanical LSD	– Forward Collision-Avoidance	10.25” satellite navigation system
– N Grin Control System	Assist	DAB+ digital radio
– N Performance Driving Data Sys.	– High Beam Assist	Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
– Performance brake package	– Lane Following Assist	Harman Kardon 8-speaker premium audio
– Rev matching function	– Lane Keeping Assist
N-exclusive exterior styling:	– Rear Cross-Traffic	Wireless charging pad (Qi)
– 19” alloy wheels	Collision-Avoidance Assist	Climate control – single zone
– Pirelli P Zero HN tyres	– Safe Exit Warning	Power folding exterior mirrors
– Full body kit	– Smart Cruise Control	Rain sensing wipers
– Rear spoiler	Tyre Pressure Monitoring System	Auto light control
N-exclusive interior styling:	Parking Distance Warning – Reverse	Rear privacy glass
– Alloy sports pedals	Rear View Monitor	Acoustic laminated windshield
– Sports front bucket seats	10.25” Supervision cluster	Temporary space saver spare wheel
– Leather appointed steering wheel	Smart key with push button start

 

KONA N Premium		2.0 Turbo DCT
Key specifications above N:
Electro-chromatic Mirror	Suede/leather appointed interior	Heated steering wheel
Head-Up Display	Power driver & front passenger seats	Glass sunroof
Parking Distance Warning – Front	Heated & ventilated front seats	Ambient lighting