The Hyundai Kona N takes the notion that crossovers are boring and turns it the wrong way up. The bottom Kona was already a reasonably enjoyable car to drive, however the N takes it to a brand new degree. We have by no means met a crossover that might make us grin like this. All of it begins with the engine. Hyundai did its finest to handle all 289 lb-ft of torque going out to the entrance wheels utilizing a intelligent N Nook Carving Differential, however the Kona N can nonetheless break its Pirelli tires unfastened from the pavement with ease. A good quantity of torque steer is transmitted via the steering wheel, although it is by no means sufficient to lose religion within the Kona’s dealing with talents. Talking of which, the Kona N is a delight via the bends. The automobile feels nimble via the well-calibrated steering being one of many components that make the Kona N deal with extra like a sizzling hatchback. Excessive-performance brakes with giant 14.2-inch entrance rotors assist preserve issues beneath management, too.
Drivers can choose 5 modes on the N Grin Management System (drive mode choice), together with Eco, Regular, Sport, N, and Customized. The Kona N gives fine-tuning for the engine, exhaust, suspension, traction management, and extra, and as soon as you discover the best mixture for these settings, it can save you it on considered one of two programmable N buttons on the wheel. We discovered the usual suspension mode agency however affordable, whereas the harshest N mode was too uncomfortable for something moreover a newly-paved highway. If we have been programming the N buttons for ourselves, we might have every part within the sportiest setting with the suspension in its softest mode.
Although it sacrifices consolation, the Kona N makes up for this shortcoming by placing a giant dumb smile on the motive force’s face. Push the pink N Grin Shift (NGS) button on the wheel, and the automobile delivers a 10-hp increase for 20 seconds together with the bottom potential gear and quickest shifts potential. If you happen to weren’t smiling earlier than, the NGS button could have you bursting with laughter. The Kona N actually creates a brand new class for the new crossover.
