Discontinued Kona N supplies running out

HYUNDAI Australia has just 26 examples of its desirable Kona N high performance small SUV in stock (without names against them) and after that, it is gone… possibly for good.

According to a Hyundai Australia spokesman, and following the introduction of a new generation Kona, there are no plans currently in place for a new Kona N model.

“Since the Kona N was released back in late 2021, we have sold about 1500 examples, but the car has proven the least popular N model in our line-up,” said the Hyundai Motor Company Australia spokesperson.

“Until Cupra came out with something similar, there were no direct competitors for the Kona N. This is the last batch of the Kona N we have been able to secure so it’s first come, first serve.”

The likelihood of a new Kona N would appear to be a slim chance as Hyundai shifts focus to new energy vehicles with hybrid and battery electric powertrains and tightening international emissions regulations will make it more difficult to use ICE engines such as that in the Kona N.

“If a new generation Kona N was to be planned and built it would more than likely be an EV,” said the spokesman.

Though Hyundai Australia has just reopened order books for the sporty i30N on which current Kona N is based and the i20N, the fact that Kona has gone to a new generation may stop the production of an N variant.

The current model is priced from $49,200 excluding on-road costs and is built with many shared performance components from the i30N. But the front-wheel drive turbo SUV with an electronic limited-slip differential differed in subtle areas including its reinforced SUV-style body.

Power comes from a twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol four cylinder rated at 206kW and 392Nm, with an over-boost function lifting output to 213kW momentarily. The all-alloy engine has been around for years and is directly related to the mill in Mitsubishi’s (Lancer) Evolution 10.

Available here only with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Kona N was, in the right hands, capable of seeing off the i30N in a 0-100km/h sprint stopping the clocks at 5.5 seconds. A feature a called N Grin Shift bestowed the Kona N with that additional 7kW of power for a 10 second blast after which there it’s a 20 second wait until the system resets.

Other handy stuff on Kona N is the launch control function that sees clean take offs under maximum power easily accessible when required and a data recorder to keeps tabs on driving performance.

The electronic limited slip differential that controls the delivery of power to the front wheels also enhances the Kona N’s overall handling taking it to a more oversteering attitude when pushed hard through turns, even at 1510kg kerb weight.

It drinks 98RON premium unleaded at a claimed 9.0 litres/100km from a 50-litre fuel tank and owners can exact a higher level of satisfaction from the active exhaust that adds snap, crackle and pop to the note out the back.

If you want one, our advice is to get in quick.