Hyundai’s Latest Kona N Teaser Doesn’t Hide Much

Hyundai has made no secret of its intention to expand the N performance division beyond the excellent Veloster N. CarBuzz has already experienced a prototype Hyundai Elantra N and came away very impressed. The South Korean automaker is now teasing its next N creation: the Kona N. Not to be mistaken with the Kona N Line, the 2022 Hyundai Kona N is the fully-fledged high-performance version of the popular subcompact crossover.

Today, teaser images of this new hot SUV have been released for the first time without camouflage. The background may be a bit dark, but we can still make out quite a few details, such as the lower and wider stance, a new light signature, a large double-wing roof, triangular brake light, large dual exhaust pipes, and a unique front fascia. We lightened the image too, and it’s very revealing.

Hyundai says the lower grille “defines the character of the bumper fascia… [with a] shape inspired by an aeronautic fuselage and extends to the side of the car.” Also notice the large diffuser to further enhance airflow departure. The body-colored fenders are another nice touch whose purpose is to visually bring the vehicle closer to the ground for that planted attitude. Like the Veloster N, the Kona N will come standard with alloy wheels, red accents, and special badging.

Hyundai has yet to disclose what’s under the hood but we strongly suspect to find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 250 to 275 horsepower paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox that’ll route power to all four wheels.

Pricing is another mystery but be assured it’ll cost quite a bit more than the $20,500 base Kona. A fully-loaded Kona runs for just over $30,000 and that’s where we suspect the Kona N will begin but could run as high as $35,000. To compare, the Veloster N will set you back nearly $33,000. Another interesting detail Hyundai disclosed is that, for the first time, its N division and the Hyundai Design Center worked side-by-side to develop the Kona N’s body.

By the looks of things, the two teams have delivered a bold-looking and dynamic small SUV. Hyundai confirms a full reveal is coming soon.