2021 Hyundai Kona N Line 1.6L 7AT (195 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Hyundai Kona has been an instant success in the carmaker’s inventory ever since it was introduced on the market in 2017, so after three years, the automaker has considered updating the model to keep the car’s appeal high.

The Korean automaker understood that crossovers were in high demand, and creating a subcompact vehicle to fit in that segment was an excellent idea. Sales went through the roof. The wide choice of engines that covered all areas, including a hybrid and an electric version, were other reasons why many customers chose a Kona over many other competitors. However, over time, the car’s design and some of its interior technologies were overpassed by other car manufacturers, so Hyundai considered improving the lineup. Despite the world pandemic that lowered worldwide car sales, Hyundai thought it was worth investing in its subcompact crossover and making it better. As a result, in late 2020, the Korean automaker unveiled the refreshed version of the Kona.

When the 2017 Kona was unveiled, customers were dazzled by the car’s front fascia. It was unusual, but it soon gained huge popularity. Hyundai knew it and quickly adapted and made it better. As a result, it kept the high-mounted LED daytime running lights but doubled their functions as turn signal lamps. Furthermore, the headlights mounted on the lower side of the bumper were refreshed. They had a swept-back shape and integrated three elliptic-shaped lamps.

Along with the refreshed 2021 Hyundai Kona, the automaker added the N trim level, which carried over some unique details compared with the rest of the range. While most Kona versions featured black plastic cladding over the wheel arches, the N had them body-colored. In addition, the N also had a specific badge on the front hexagonal grille and on the tailgate. It also sported redesigned side sills, which neatly complemented the 19-inch alloy wheels (17 and 18 for the rest of the range) of the sporty-looking crossover. Thanks to these enhancements, the car looked more like a hot hatch with a higher ground clearance rather than an SUV with a lowered stance.

Inside, the updated 2021 Hyundai Kona was available with a choice of 8 and 10.25-inch touchscreens atop the center stack. Both featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Surprisingly, though, the smaller unit (for base grades) featured wireless connectivity with smartphones, while those who opted for the full package had to connect them via cables to get all the benefits of these integrated systems. Furthermore, fronting the driver was still an analog instrument panel for the first two trim levels, while the upper ones got a 10.25-inch TFT display. The front occupants could enjoy the cloth-covered front seats, but a set of high-bolstered bucket seats with leather upholstery were available. In the back, the split-folding bench seat could accommodate up to three passengers for short jaunts or two for longer journeys.

Under the hood, Hyundai installed a choice of two gasoline engines, while the turbodiesel version was quietly withdrawn from the market. Both powerplants sent their power to the front wheels via either a seven-speed automatic (dual-clutch) or a CVT transmission. The all-wheel drive version was also ditched from the lineup.