For a performance sub-division only launched four years ago, Hyundai N has already established itself as a brand worthy of enthusiast recognition. The i30 hit the mark right from the off, bundling fun and value together in great hot hatch package; more of the same looks set to follow in the i20, given what we know thus far. Now Hyundai N faces arguably its toughest test yet: making a proper fast car out of a compact SUV. Where Nissan struggled, so few others have tried and only Ford has made something decent, Hyundai will enter battle with the Kona N.
These teaser images are the first we've seen of the car without any disguise, revealing a few N trademarks - the triangular brake light, chunky twin exhausts and red accents - as well as a few unique to the Kona, including Audi-esque intakes at the front of the bonnet and a prominent main grille. Hyundai says the Kona N has an "aggressive, powerful appearance." Other points of note from these images include the large alloys and i30-aping rear spoiler. Even without the badges, and even in the dark, it would be clear this apple hasn't fallen far from the Hyundai N tree.
It's asserted in the latest release that the Kona will "combine the driving fun of a Hyundai N model with the comfort and convenience of an SUV." Nobody needs reminding of the unabating demand for fast 4x4s, so the business case is plain to see. Whether the Kona N will stack up as a performance car, however, remains to be seen. While the Puma ST is very good, there's no escaping how stiff it has been made to ensure it's good fun - and the Kona seemed cut from similar cloth when we drove the prototype earlier this year. Still, if enough people like the styling, Hyundai could be onto a winner either way. Expect to see the full reveal before the month is out...
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