2021 Hyundai Kona Arrives With Tweaked Looks And An N Line Variant

The facelifted 2021 Hyundai Kona and new Kona N Line models have just been unveiled by the South Korean car manufacturer.

While the overall shape of the updated Kona remains similar to the outgoing model, a host of changes have been made. These changes are particularly apparent at the front end where Hyundai has fitted re-designed LED daytime running lights while also installing a new lower bumper, a robust skid plate, and a revised black grille. Elsewhere, Hyundai has outfitted the facelifted Kona with new main headlights.

Spin around to the rear and the tweaked Kona sports new taillights with revised graphics. There is also a distinctive rear bumper while 16-, 17-, and 18-inch wheels will also be offered throughout the range.

A series of unique styling elements make the Kona N Line stand out from the regular model. This includes a bespoke front fascia with a new bumper, three subtle air slots above the grille, an N-style aerodynamic lip with corner fins, distinctive rocker panels, and 18-inch wheels. The rear bumper also includes a diffuser and N-style fins.

Under the skin, the 2021 Hyundai Kona arrives with a host of new engines. Sitting at the top of the range is an enhanced 1.6-liter T-GDI Smartstream engine producing 194 hp and paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This engine will be offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive variations.

A 1.6-liter Smartstream diesel engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology is also on offer. This powertrain packs 134 hp and can be coupled to either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a Hyundai’s six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6iMT), as well as optional four-wheel drive. Sitting at the base of the range is a 1.0-liter T-GDI Smartstream petrol with 118 hp that can be equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and Hyundai’s 6iMT gearbox. Should customers prefer not to have the 48-volt mild-hybrid system, they can select between a 7-speed dual-clutch or a 6-speed manual with optional four-wheel drive.

Last but not least is the new 2021 Hyundai Kona Hybrid that combines a 1.6-liter GDI engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 138 hp. This model sports a 1.56 kWh battery pack, a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, and front-wheel drive.

Hyundai has made a number of suspension enhancements to improve comfort without negatively impacting the vehicle’s sporty character. Most notably, the stabilizer bars have been modified for better ride comfort and isolation while the rear bump stop has also been modified. Steering changes have also been made.

Rounding out the upgrades for 2021 are a series of interior improvements. For example, the Kona comes with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and can also be optioned with a 10.25-inch central infotainment screen that includes a split-screen function. Other updates made include ambient lighting technology, a host of new color and material options, including two-tone beige leather and Khaki leather.

Key safety features within Hyundai’s SmartSense Active Safety suite include Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with stop and go, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Lane Following Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Warning, Safe Exit Warning, Rear Seat Alert, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

The new Hyundai Kona will land in European showrooms towards the end of the year before hitting the Australian market in the first quarter of 2021.