Hyundai looking to make performance-based Kona N crossover

MANILA: The popular Hyundai Kona could become more powerful soon. The N Performance department of the South Korean company may soon come up with a performance-oriented version of crossover and is currently working on a prototype, Kona N.

However, Hyundai is yet to give a nod to go ahead with the real-life testing of the Kona N prototype. If it does, we might have the crossover produce around 250 hp along with sharper handling and great engine response, much more than the standard variant.

Speaking to a popular automobile publication, Albert Biermann, the head of the N Performance division of Hyundai, had said that his engineers are already instructed to begin with the evaluation of the N performance version, but the final approval has still not been given.

The exact specifications of the Hyundai Kona N are still not known but it may get the engine and transmission setup up from the i30 N. Mr. Biermann has even mentioned that Kona may get a different set of specifications like the suspension and handling. However, though it will still be a front-wheel-drive vehicle like the i30, the engine and gearbox may be similar.

Aesthetically, we are expecting the Hyundai Kona N to get minimum changes over the standard version. The changes may be limited to just sporty additions like aggressive bumpers at both ends, a sporty exposed exhaust pipe, etc.

Internationally, the Hyundai Kona is offered in three different engine options, that are 1.0-litre gasoline, a 1.6-litre diesel, and the most powerful 1.6-litre gasoline. The smaller gasoline engine makes 120 PS power and 172 Nm torque, while the 1.6-litre diesel makes 136 PS of maximum power and 300 Nm of peak torque. However, the most powerful 1.6-litre gasoline is capable of making a maximum power of 177 PS along with 265 Nm of torque.

Hyundai Philippines does not offer the Kona crossover in the country yet. Hence, if at all the production of the performance-version is given a green signal, it might not be introduced ahead of the standard version. Internationally, the Kona N may be introduced in 2019 or latest by 2020.