Hyundai Kona N specifications and photos
The 2021 Hyundai Kona N is a high-performance variant of the brand's compact crossover. Marking the first SUV to join Hyundai's N division, it combines the everyday utility of a five-door body style with track-focused engineering and aggressive styling.
Hyundai Kona N at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
Introduced in April 2021, the Kona N applies the proven formula of the i20 N and i30 N hot hatches to a crossover format. It is designed for drivers who want a taller ride height without sacrificing driving dynamics. Hyundai engineers reinforced the body structure and overhauled the chassis to manage the increased output. Unlike many performance SUVs that rely on all-wheel drive, the Kona N is strictly front-wheel drive, utilizing an electronic limited-slip differential to put power down effectively. The vehicle offers five distinct driving modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, N, and Custom—allowing the driver to adjust steering weight, engine response, transmission behavior, and stability control thresholds.
- Power: 280 hp
- Engine displacement: 1998 cc
- Transmissions: 8-speed dual-clutch
- Seating: 5 seats
Photos, trims and specifications for Hyundai Kona N
This model page brings gallery images, trim comparison, and detailed technical data together for the 2021 generation.
Estimate fuel cost
Use trim-level fuel consumption data to estimate monthly and yearly fuel spending.
Fuel costs are estimates. Real consumption can change with driving style, traffic, tires, weather, load, and market-specific equipment.
Hyundai Kona N overview
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
The exterior of the Kona N immediately distinguishes it from standard models. It features a specific aerodynamic body kit highlighted by red lower accents and a wider front grille mesh. The rear profile is dominated by a substantial diffuser housing dual large-diameter exhaust outlets. A prominent roof spoiler integrates a triangular third brake light, a signature design cue for Hyundai N models. As standard, the crossover rides on lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels, emphasizing its sporty stance.
Interior
Inside, the cabin is tailored for spirited driving. Heavily bolstered sport seats secure the front occupants, while the bespoke steering wheel features customizable N buttons and a prominent red N Grin Shift (NGS) switch that temporarily maximizes powertrain performance. The driver receives information through an N-specific digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen infotainment system equipped with voice recognition. Despite the performance focus, amenities like a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and automatic climate control remain standard.
Performance
Power comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged T-GDI four-cylinder engine producing 280 horsepower and 392 Nm of torque. This engine is mated exclusively to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (8-DCT). With the aid of standard launch control, the front-wheel-drive Kona N can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 240 km/h. An active variable exhaust system adjusts the vehicle's acoustic profile depending on the selected drive mode. Fuel consumption in a mixed cycle is rated at 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
Practicality
Despite its track-ready hardware, the Kona N retains standard compact SUV practicality. It accommodates five passengers and offers 361 liters of cargo space behind the rear seats. The overall length is 4215 mm with a 2600 mm wheelbase, making it relatively easy to maneuver and park in urban environments. A ground clearance of 173 mm provides enough height for typical daily driving obstacles, though it remains a road-focused machine rather than an off-roader.
Safety and tech
The Kona N is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety systems, including adaptive cruise control, active lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Front and rear parking sensors are also standard. The technological package extends to convenience and entertainment, featuring a head-up display, a premium eight-speaker Krell audio system, and seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Buyer notes
Buyers comparing performance crossovers should note that the Kona N is front-wheel drive only, which differentiates it from several all-wheel-drive competitors in the segment. The single high-specification powertrain simplifies the buying process, but specific equipment like the Krell audio or advanced safety assists may vary slightly depending on regional market availability.
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
| Trim / modification | Engine | Power | Seats | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 T-GDI (280 hp) 8-DCT | 1998 cc | 280 hp | 5 | 8-speed dual-clutch |
Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.
Hyundai Kona N photo gallery
14 images are collected here with the main specifications and trim data for this model.
Photo Hyundai Kona N
Specifications by trim
Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.
2.0 T-GDI (280 hp) 8-DCT 35 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 8.5 |
|---|---|
| Top speed, km/h | 240 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 5.5 |
| Emissions standard | Euro VI |
Engine
| Engine | 2.0 T-GDI |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1998 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Power, hp | 280 |
| RPM at max power | 5500–6000 |
| Torque, Nm | 392 |
| RPM at max torque | 2100–4700 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4215 |
| Height, mm | 1560 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2600 |
| Front track, mm | 1579 |
| Rear track, mm | 1575 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1585 |
| Gross weight, kg | 2010 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 50 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 173 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1800 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 361 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 2-speed automated manual |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Transmission manufacturer | Hyundai-KIA |
| Automatic transmission | + |
| Transmission country | South Korea |
Hyundai Kona N questions
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What kind of vehicle is the Hyundai Kona N?
It is a high-performance compact crossover, marking the first SUV developed by Hyundai's N performance division.
What engine does the Kona N have?
It uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 280 horsepower and 392 Nm of torque.
Is the Kona N all-wheel drive?
No, the Kona N is exclusively front-wheel drive, utilizing an electronic limited-slip differential to manage traction.
How fast is the Kona N?
It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds with launch control and has a top speed of 240 km/h.
Does it have practical cargo space?
Yes, it retains standard crossover utility with seating for five and 361 liters of trunk volume.