Refreshed 2021 Hyundai Kona unveiled with sporty N Line

The facelifted 2021 Hyundai Kona has made its debut with an all-new N Line joining the range for the first time.

While the rear end remains relatively similar to the outgoing model with minor updates to the taillights with revised graphics and rear bumper, the front end on the other hand, gets a more major overhaul.

Highlighting the redesigned front fascia is Hyundai’s revised front grille flanked by a pair of new headlights and even slimmer than before LED daytime running lights. There are also fresh 16-, 17- and 18-inch wheels depending on the variant.

Meanwhile, the box-fresh Kona N Line gets model specific styling elements, including a sportier front fascia with new bumper and three subtle air slots above the grille, an N-style aerodynamic lip with corner fins, body colour cladding, diamond-cut 1418-inch wheels and a rear bumper with diffuser and N-style fins.

The new Kona is 40mm longer than the previous model, giving it a sleeker and more dynamic look, according to Hyundai.

Underneath the bonnet is a range of new engines, with the N Line getting an enhanced 1.6-litre T-GDi Smartstream engine producing 144kW and connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It will be offered in both two- and all-wheel drive.

On the diesel front, a 1.6-litre Smartstream diesel matched with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system packing 100kW is on offer. It can be coupled to either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or Hyundai’s six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6iMT), and optional all-wheel drive.

Entry-level variants will get a 1.0-litre T-GDi Smartstream petrol with 88kW that can be equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and Hyundai’s 6iMT transmission. Customers who prefer not to have the 48-volt mild-hybrid system can select between a 7-speed dual-clutch or a 6-speed manual with optional all-wheel drive.

Certain markets will also get a new Kona Hybrid combining a 1.6-litre GDi engine with an electric motor to product a combined 103kW. It features a 1.56kWh battery, 6-speed dual-clutch and front-wheel drive.

Underneath the sheet metal, Hyundai has tweaked the Kona’s suspension, including modifying the stabilizer bars and rear bump stops for better ride comfort and isolation. The company has also made changes to the car’s steering.

Inside, the redesigned interior is more upscale and features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, along with an optional 10.25-inch infotainment system with split-screen function and multiple Bluetooth connections.

As standard, the new Kona is equipped with an 8-inch infotainment screen (up from 7-inch), DAB radio and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety highlights include Hyundai’s SmartSense Active Safety suite encompassing 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 Kona comes with five new exterior colours, including Surfy Blue, Dive in Jeju, Ignite Flame, Cyber Grey, and Misty Jungle in addition to the five existing colours.