Hyundai plotting 200kW Kona N

Hyundai's N division boss, Albert Biermann, has confirmed that he has ordered his team of engineers to begin work on a N version of the Korean car-maker's popular Kona compact SUV.

Speaking to Brit mag, Auto Express, Biermann said he hoped a working prototype would help convince his management to greenlight the program.

"I've told them [the engineers] to build the car and we'll see what happens with getting it approved," said the Hyundai N boss, adding that his team wouldn't be prepared to hold back when it comes to performance for the small SUV.

"It has to be the i30 N powertrain, really. Of course, we can give Kona different specifications on suspension and steering, although there are some common components we can use in that area as well, because it'll be front drive, like the i30 N.

"But we know that it has to be that car's engine and gearbox for the Kona N, yes," added Biermann.

That means the fast Kona will come with same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol that produces up to 202kW/353Nm, although Auto Express claims the lower-powered 184kW version that's available in European markets will be the more likely match for the small SUV.

Under the bonnet of the i30 N, it's an effective little unit, helping the Korean hot hatch hit 100km/h in 6.4 seconds before topping out at 249km/h -- figures that won't be far off what the only slightly heavier Kona is expected to return.

It's thought any Kona N would feature a styling kit with real aerodynamic benefits, with the N division adding a working diffuser, rear spoiler and front splitter to increase stability at high speeds.

To channel all its power and torque to the road efficiently, engineers are likely to once again use the same electronic front differential that was developed for the i30 N.

If given the nod by Hyundai execs, the Kona N could be on sale globally before the end of 2020.

Before the Kona N launches, Biermann says his performance division will launch its new N Line models to market, the first being the i30 N Line.

Featuring chassis tweaks and a styling kit, the N Line has been created for those wanting a sportier i30.

"We'll bring the i30 N Line to market later this year, We have reprofiled quite a lot of it over the conventional car – the steering, the gearshift, the springs, shocks and dampers. It should be a useful new model in the range and help to build the N brand," said Biermann.

The performance division boss went on to tell the Brit mag that Hyundai has been struggling to meet demand for the i30 N, with the car-maker currently dealing with up to 1400 back orders.

Biermann also added that Hyundai was pleased with the "very positive" feedback from the firm's first hot hatch.