Hyundai flaunts a camo-free Kona N

Hyundai revealed a small set of photos that highlights some of the design details of its upcoming Kona N, the first crossover to enter the Korean brand’s N performance lineup.

The Kona N adopts a look that, while similar to Hyundai’s facelifted 2022 models that will be on sale shortly, reveals some interesting restyling. Differentiating the N from its more pedestrian brethren is a fascia with three intake slots above the main grille opening. The full-fledged N model will share that fascia with the mid-level performance trim, confusingly dubbed “N-Line.” Of course, there’s also an N badge set off to the passenger side of the grille, à la Veloster N:

The Kona N also sports a roof spoiler with a mid-mounted, triangular light, like its pocket-sized, hatchback sibling. Dual exhaust and a rear diffuser further serve to set the N apart from the rest of the Kona line and hint at its performance potential.

So far, we know the Kona as a smartly styled subcompact utility vehicle with up to 175 hp in gasoline trims and 201 hp in all-electric spec. The upcoming N Line model, which sits just below the N, will offer a 195-hp four-cylinder. Upon the Kona’s entry into the full-bore N performance lineup, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a similar powerplant to the one powering the current Veloster N. If so, that would mean the Kona N would get a version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged four that, as of the 2021 model year, is good for 275 hp in the lively three-door.

Besides the mystery of the powertrain, there’s still the question of what Hyundai plans to do to set the Kona N apart from its peers when it comes to suspension. Hyundai worked magic with the Veloster; will it be able to overcome the sophomore slump and deliver another enthusiast car to North America that’s worthy of fanfare?