Giant killers

Hyundai's N-fettled Kona and i30 models meld searing pace and dynamic engagement with a hint of everyday practiality

- Damian Adams

HYUNDAI KONA 2,0 N DCT ETA: NOW

Price: R749 900 Engine: 2,0-litre, 4-cyl, turbopetrol Transmission: 8-speed DCT automatic Power: 206 kW @ 5 500-6 000 r/min Torque: 392 N.m @ 2100-4 700 r/min 0-100 km/h: 5,5 seconds Top speed: 240 km/h Fuel consumption: 8,9 L/100 km (combined) CO₂ emissions: 194 g/km Rivals: Mini JCW Clubman, BMW X2 M35i

For most hardcore driving enthusiasts, SUVs and crossovers traditionally come up short when it comes to engaging through-the-seat-of-your-pants driving characteristics. Hyundai's high-performance N arm, however, has gone out and developed this, the Kona N. It's a niche offering that takes the form of a hot SUV providing performance-orientated drivers with the expected agility, power, and feedback with a reasonable dose of everyday practicality and usability. The concept isn't unique, though. We have seen the likes of the BMW X2 35i, Audi RS Q3, and Mini Cooper Countryman JCW in recent years. The Kona N is Hyundai's first proper attempt at this sort of vehicle (not to be confused with the Kona N Line). Its rivals are far pricier and offer all-wheel drive. This front-wheel-drive hot crossover looks set to carve out its own place on the showroom floor and uses the mechanical underpinnings of its i30 N sibling, which has now been revised and is available with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.