Hyundai is gearing up to unveil the latest member of the N family, so they’re releasing new details about the 2022 Kona N.
Starting under the hood, the model will have a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces approximately 276 hp (206 kW / 280 PS). The company didn’t mention a torque output, but teased a “new higher amount of torque is utilizing more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving situations.”
Hyundai went on to say the engine features a “flat power characteristic that provides more torque and power at mid and high-range RPM’s.” The company added this characteristic “improves acceleration in the mid- and high-speed range” and delivers consistent performance.
Also Read: 2022 Hyundai Kona N Spied Undisguised During Photo Shoot!
While we already knew the engine would be connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, Hyundai released new details about the gearbox today. It’s based on their familiar eight-speed DCT, but has been equipped with specially-tuned gear ratios and a uniquely calibrated control unit that allows for faster shifts and a “host of exclusive driving features.”
Speaking of the latter, there are N Grin Shift, N Power Shift and N Track Sense Shift functions. N Grin Shift maximizes engine and transmission performance for 20 seconds, with at least a 40 second ‘cool down’ period between uses. It’s activated by a dedicated button on the steering wheel and can be used to help when passing or merging onto a highway.
N Power Shift, on the other hand, activates when the Kona N accelerates with more than 90 percent throttle. When engaged, it maximizes torque during upshifts and causes the exhaust to crackle.
Lastly, N Track Sense Shift recognizes when conditions are optimal for dynamic driving and activates automatically. When engaged, gear changes and shift timing are optimized for sporty driving.
On the topic of settings, the Kona N has an N Grin Control System with Normal, Eco, Sport, N and Custom modes. Drivers will also be able to turn off the “creep” function, so the crossover doesn’t automatically roll forward when the brake pedal is released and the car is in drive.
Getting back to the gearbox, the transmission has two electric oil pumps that help to reduce friction and improve cooling. Drivers will also find paddle shifters and gear knob controls, which allow for manual operation. All in all, Hyundai says the N DCT will provide the “engaging experience of a sequential manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic transmission.”
There’s no word on when Hyundai will introduce the Kona N, but it should debut shortly as the model was spied undisguised last month during a photo shoot.
