Sharper Hyundai Kona SUV teased

Thursday, 27 August 2020

Top Plug-in Car: Hyundai Kona Electric was best in class in 2018.

Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) has teased a glimpse of the refreshed Kona and Kona N Line SUVs, previewing a sharpened face and a sportier character for its compact crossover model.

HMC says the new design expresses Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” global design identity (whatever that means) and gives the Kona a wider stance and a shark-inspired nose that offers a sleeker look.

Upgraded daytime running lights (DRLs) give it a high-tech, sophisticated style while a revised front skid plate and bumper add to its “armoured’’ appearance.

The sharper look is apparently inspired by a shark. It looks fantastic.

The news also confirms the Kona is the next Hyundai to join its N Line line-up of sports-themed models.

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The new Kona N Line gets more aerodynamic bits and pieces. As for under the bonnet, Hyundai is keeping quiet on any mechanical upgrades.

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The new Kona N Line will boast a more aerodynamic design with a low-set air intake and more aggressive front bumper, complemented by corner fins and lean crease lines. The N Line model offers an attractive entry point to the N brand and expands Kona’s appeal to a broader range of customers.

More details for the new Kona and Kona N-Line will be revealed in the coming weeks. It’s unclear if the Kona Electric will get a similar design update.

The Kona joined the Hyundai New Zealand model line-up in late 2017 and the high-riding compact crossover has played an important role for the brand.

In both 2018 and 2019 the Kona (including Kona Electric models) was Hyundai’s second best-selling nameplate behind the Tucson and ahead of the Santa Fe.