Hyundai Kona N — Specs, Trims, Prices & Owner Reviews
The Hyundai Kona N is the high-performance version of the Kona subcompact crossover and was the first SUV built by Hyundai's N division. It was revealed at Hyundai N Day on 27 April 2021, based on the facelifted first-generation Kona, and joined the Veloster N and Elantra N in the American N line-up. It was sold in the United States for just two model years, 2022 and 2023, before Hyundai retired it and shifted its performance efforts toward electric models such as the Ioniq 5 N.
Model years 2022–2023 · Independent buyer data
Fuel economy: 20 mpg city / 27 hwy (premium fuel)
Hyundai Kona N: General Information
The Hyundai Kona N is the high-performance version of the Kona subcompact crossover and was the first SUV built by Hyundai's N division. It was revealed at Hyundai N Day on 27 April 2021, based on the facelifted first-generation Kona, and joined the Veloster N and Elantra N in the American N line-up. It was sold in the United States for just two model years, 2022 and 2023, before Hyundai retired it and shifted its performance efforts toward electric models such as the Ioniq 5 N.
Every Kona N uses the same 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged four found in the Veloster N and Elantra N, rated at 276 hp and 289 lb-ft in U.S. trim with a flat torque curve that holds maximum output from around 5,500 rpm; N Grin Shift briefly overboosts it to roughly 286 hp. Drive goes exclusively to the front wheels through an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic — no manual was offered — with an electronic limited-slip differential, three-stage adjustable dampers, a variable exhaust valve system and N Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift software. Hyundai claims 0-62 mph in 5.5 seconds and a 149-mph top speed.
Visually the Kona N gets body-colored cladding, a front lip spoiler, side sill mouldings, a double-wing roof spoiler, a dedicated triangular third brake light and 19-inch alloys, with Performance Blue accents on the seats, steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake inside. Reviewers consistently praised its pace and its crackling exhaust while criticising a ride that is firm even in its softest setting and a dual-clutch gearbox that shuffles awkwardly at parking speeds. Cargo space matches the standard Kona at 19.2 cubic feet, EPA economy is 20/27 mpg on premium fuel, and U.S. base prices ran from $34,200 to $34,950 before destination.
Hyundai Kona N by model year
2022 Hyundai Kona N
2022 Hyundai Kona N N
2022 is the Kona N's first year in the United States and it arrives as a single, fully equipped $34,200 model — $35,445 with destination — sitting nearly $6,000 above the next-priciest Kona. The 2.0-liter Theta II turbo makes 276 hp and 289 lb-ft through an eight-speed wet dual-clutch and an electronic limited-slip differential, and unlike every other Kona it cannot be had with all-wheel drive. Equipment roughly matches a Kona Limited minus the leather, plus 19-inch wheels, adjustable dampers and heavily bolstered suede sport seats.
2023 Hyundai Kona N
2023 Hyundai Kona N N
The 2023 Kona N is the last one: Hyundai dropped it from the U.S. range when the second-generation Kona arrived for 2024, and no N version of the new car was built. Price rises $750 to $34,950 — about $36,000 with destination — and nothing else changes. The 276-hp, 289-lb-ft 2.0-liter Theta II turbo, eight-speed wet dual-clutch, electronic limited-slip differential and adjustable dampers all carry over, as does the quirk that the fastest Kona is the only one you cannot get with all-wheel drive.
Hyundai Kona N trim levels
| Trim | MSRP | Engine | Power | Drive | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N | $34,200 | 2.0L Theta II T-GDI I4 | 276 hp / 289 lb-ft | FWD | 20 / 27 mpg |
| N | $34,950 | 2.0L Theta II T-GDI I4 | 276 hp / 289 lb-ft | FWD | 20 / 27 mpg |
Specifications (2023)
| Fuel | Petrol |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic |
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Frequently asked questions
How much does the Hyundai Kona N cost?
The Hyundai Kona N has a typical price range of $34,950, spanning 2 trim levels. Actual prices vary by year, mileage and local market conditions.
What fuel economy does the Hyundai Kona N get?
The Hyundai Kona N achieves 20 / 27 mpg. Real-world figures depend on trim, drivetrain and driving style.
Is the Hyundai Kona N reliable?
Owner-reported reliability is rated 7.0 / 10. Recall history: 1 recall (NHTSA, 2023 model year — campaign 24V528000, high-pressure fuel pump).
What years of the Hyundai Kona N are available to compare?
Cars4Real covers Hyundai Kona N model years 2022–2023. You can compare every year and trim side by side with live market prices and real owner reviews.