Hyundai has introduced a new N Line variant of its electric Kona crossover, marking a significant move as the brand’s best-selling electric vehicle. The Kona Electric N Line maintains the futuristic design of the standard model but adds a touch of assertiveness with enhanced front and rear bumpers, stylish side skirts, and distinctive N Line badging. The interior of this sportier version features sports seats with red contrasting stitching, along with red accents on the dashboard and steering wheel.
For UK customers, the Kona Electric N Line is available in two trims: N Line and N Line S, with prices starting at £40,395 for the N Line 65kWh and £43,095 for the N Line S. The latter includes additional amenities such as Alcantara and leather-trimmed seats and a premium Bose sound system. Notably, the N Line variant will be offered across all powertrains, encompassing internal combustion engines (ICE) and hybrids.
Production is scheduled to commence next month, with deliveries set to begin in the spring.
The Kona itself represents Hyundai’s latest iteration of the popular family SUV, set to hit the UK market in August 2023. Positioned to compete against rivals like the Ford Puma, Vauxhall Mokka, Peugeot 2008, and MG ZS, the new Kona offers a choice of hybrid and electric powertrains. In a departure from the previous model’s approach, Hyundai prioritized the design of the electric model and adapted hybrid variants to align with its profile. This strategic shift is driven by Hyundai’s anticipation of a significant increase in electric vehicle sales, aiming to surpass 50% of the brand’s total sales.
The pricing structure for the Kona Electric variants ranges from £34,995 for the base model with a 48kWh battery to £43,095 for the N Line S 65kWh model.
In terms of design and aerodynamics, the new Kona has grown in size, measuring 4355mm in length and 1825mm in width. The increased wheelbase and enhanced rear legroom contribute to improved practicality, and the boot capacity has expanded from 374 to 466 liters. The Kona’s design prioritizes functionality, achieving a commendable drag coefficient of 0.27 through clever engineering, including features like an aerodynamic front bumper and an active grille shutter.
Inside, Hyundai has evolved the Kona’s interior design, emphasizing functionality and practicality. The cabin includes innovative features such as a spacious center console, capable of accommodating a handbag, and a rear household plug socket for convenient on-the-go charging.
The Kona is built on the K3 platform, shared with the latest Kia Niro, but it distinguishes itself with a more powerful 214bhp electric motor and a larger 65.4kWh battery. Although the Kona’s WLTP homologation is pending, Hyundai projects a maximum range of 304 miles for the flagship electric model. Additionally, the Kona will offer a less powerful version with a 48.4kWh battery, 154bhp electric motor, and a range of 212 miles.
Despite the electric-first focus, Hyundai remains committed to providing a range of powertrains, including mild and full hybrid options based on the 1.6-litre ‘Smartstream’ petrol engine. Hyundai anticipates that hybrid models will constitute around 25-30% of Kona sales in the European market.
While our time with the new Kona was brief, initial impressions suggest a more practical and spacious vehicle, with notable improvements in material quality and technology, including an upgraded infotainment system. The UK roads will be the ultimate test, revealing whether the electric model can indeed deliver the claimed range boost compared to the Kia Niro EV.