Hyundai Kona N: think taller i30N
If N is going to make a hot crossover, it’ll do so in its own way, whether you like it or not
Shenington is about as technical as kart tracks get. Involving 1211 metres of tricky low-speed bends, double apexes and hairpins, it requires patience coupled with a composed, balanced chassis. It’s not a place you’d expect to test an SUV – but it’s where we’re driving Hyundai’s new Kona N.
It’s a strong statement of intent, but it makes sense given the N’s Nürburgring-focused credentials. It looks like an over-inflated i30N on the outside, but Hyundai’s N division has sharpened the once docile crossover. Engage N mode and the Kona N reveals its newly acquired performance. After a fiery animation there’s a louder burble from the turbocharged 2.0-litre four, and we get to work.
Shenington’s short straight is eaten up, as the eight-speed DCT and new electronic diff channel 276bhp to the front wheels with minimal fuss. Our Kona N warps between braking zones, a lilac streak with all the fizz, pops and theatrics you’d expect from the N badge.
But it’s the chassis that truly drags the Kona into N territory by transplanting hot-hatch manners to a family SUV. Threading the Kona N through double-apex bends doesn’t create the upset you’d expect – even at ambitious entry speeds – and it’s generally composed. Only the screech of specially developed Pirelli P Zeros reveals how hard we’re working at the wheel.
The brakes are impressive too, providing a good balance of performance and feel. A 0-62mph launch of 5.5 seconds means we regularly hit 80mph on Shenington’s short straight, but the Kona allows us to leave our braking later and later. And not only does it slow well, it also has the poise to carry more corner speed.
However, take the Hyundai onto some local surrounding roads and the other end of the equation is revealed. It’s here, in the 30 and 60 zones – not when you’re achieving 7.7mpg – that it reveals its compromises. And interestingly they favour performance over comfort.
Away from the billiard-smooth tarmac of a kart track, the Kona N’s ride is firm and uncompromising, whichever mode you engage. It dances across the tarmac just like an i30N, but with a roomier cabin and bigger boot.
First verdict
Feels far smaller and lighter than it should, and it’s practical, but the ride is harsh. One-dimensional? Nah. N nails the brief #### #