Small but mighty
AL SUTTIE says the new Kona N is a fun-seeking missile with the spacious perks of an SUV
GOOD things come in small packages and that’s why Hyundai has launched the Kona N.
It might look like a compact SUV to carry the family in but this is a fun-seeking missile that will see off hot hatches for breakfast.
To manage this, Hyundai has squeezed the 280hp 2.0-litre engine from the i30 N, so you get a six-speed double-clutch automatic gearbox.
Use all of that power and the quickshifting transmission to full effect and the Kona N will cover 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds and head on to 149mph.
More relevant in the real world is this Hyundai can pull out and overtake slower traffic quickly and with surefooted control as the 19in alloy wheels and grippy tyres do a great job of keeping the power in check on any surface.
You can firm up the suspension for an even more sporting drive with the Sport and N settings, though we found the standard mode to be just fine on
Scotland’s undulating roads. For a different sort of fun, the NGS button gives the Kona an extra slug of power for 20 seconds.
This is really aimed at track day use but it also comes with some added crackle from the exhaust that is quite addictive when you have a quiet stretch of road to yourself.
Find those empty roads and the Kona N comes into its own and it will easily see off the Ford Puma ST thanks to its superior power and performance. The Hyundai handles in a very similar way to the i30 N, so you can make the most of its abilities.
It does everything to keep you on the right track thanks to its wide array of safety systems, yet none are intrusive or dull the driving experience.
During more mundane daily chores like going to the supermarket and commuting, the Kona N performs the neat trick of reverting back to be being a handy small SUV. It has the raised driving position many drivers like, good all-round vision, and plenty of space in the back for the kids and shopping in the boot.
However, Hyundai reminds you that you’re driving something special with the suede and leather sports front seats.
They come with thickly padded sides to support you when making the most of the handling, but they are also really comfy on longer trips and are heated with electric adjustment. Other touches to let you know the Kona N is a cut above are the head-up display and Krell Premium stereo that’s operated through the 10.25in touchscreen that includes sat-nav.
Climate control, automatic headlights and wipers, cruise control, rear privacy glass and safety kit including rear cross traffic warning are all standard with the Kona N.
Considering the Hyundai’s £33,995 list price, it’s just as well it’s generously fitted out as that sort of money puts the Kona N into contention with some of the best hot hatches ever made.
Even so, the Kona more than holds its own thanks to its performance, engaging handling and dynamics, and a list of standard equipment as long as the arm of a Harlem Globe Trotter.
The fact it packs all of this into a compact SUV that most people won’t even give a second glance makes the Hyundai Kona N even more appealing.