 will come equipped with an array of enthusiast-pleasing features. These include an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, three sporty shift settings, and a powerful turbo engine. Another N Brand Knockout: Expect thrills behind the wheel in the 2021 […] "'Pin It")
2022 Hyundai Kona N Promises High-Powered Driving Bliss
As Hyundai’s inaugural high-performance SUV, the 2022 Kona N (not to be confused with the Kona N Line) will come equipped with an array of enthusiast-pleasing features. These include an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, three sporty shift settings, and a powerful turbo engine.
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During the development process for the Kona N, Hyundai put it through a series of comprehensive tests at the storied Nurburgring track in Germany. As a result, these performance features possess the durability to withstand tough conditions and repeated hard driving.
Kona N dual-clutch transmission
With its paddle shifters, gear knob controls, and special tuning, the Kona N’s dual-clutch transmission is designed to deliver the feel of driving with a manual transmission. To improve performance, the DCT lubricated and pressurized by a pair of electric oil pumps. These pumps prevent engine power loss, boost efficiency, allow faster acceleration, and increase torque. They also prevent the clutch from overheating while the vehicle is being pushed to its limits.
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Image: Hyundai
Kona N shift settings
With three unique DCT shift settings, the Kona N should provide plenty of fun behind the wheel. N Power Shift kicks in during intense acceleration to reduce torque loss, deliver a forward surge during upshifts, and contribute an adrenaline-enhancing exhaust crackle. N Grin Shift gives drivers maximum engine and transmission performance for a 20-second period, automatically shifting to the best gear for all-out acceleration. N Track Sense Shift takes over shift timing on the racetrack so drivers can concentrate on steering.
Along with these high-performance settings, the Kona N also provides five regular drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N, and Custom.
Kona N engine
Under the hood, the Kona N carries a muscular 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine that puts out an estimated 276 horsepower. This engine delivers more torque and power when RPMs are in their middle or high range. The goal with this is to maximize acceleration and overall performance during normal driving. That way, there’s no need to take the Kona N to a track to enjoy what it has to offer.
Hyundai hasn’t given a specific arrival date for the Kona N yet, but it’s expected to show up at dealerships by the end of 2021.
A longtime editor/writer and recently transplanted Hoosier, Caleb Cook lives in Xenia, Ohio. His favorite activities are reading and listening to music, although he occasionally emerges from the heap of books and vinyl records in his basement to stand blinking in the sunlight. Once fully acclimated to the outside world again, he can be observed hanging out with his wife, attempting a new recipe in the kitchen, attending movies, walking the dog, or wandering into a local brewery to inquire about what’s on tap. See more articles by Caleb.