2021 Hyundai Kona gains N Line trim, mild-hybrid options

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aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift 19"Hyundai has revamped its Kona line-up for 2021, ushering in a new look inside and out, mild-hybrid technology and a performance-inspired N Line range-topper.

The updated car is told apart primarily by its heavily redesigned front end, which incorporates wider LED daytime-running lights, an extended bonnet, a new grille design and a contrasting silver skid plate.

aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift"The side profile is more familiar, but the rear end has been updated with new brake light designs and a contrasting lower bumper to match the front. Overall, the new Kona is 40mm longer than the outgoing car, which Hyundai claims gives it “a more sleek and dynamic look”.

aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift 10"Inside, the Kona gains an electronic handbrake, ambient lighting, coloured speaker and vent surrounds, and a raft of new colour and material options.

aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift 12"Alongside the visual tweaks comes a new N Line trim level inspired by the brand’s N performance offshoot. It does away with the standard car’s contrasting cladding in favour of an aerodynamically enhancing bodykit, and gains a distinctive mesh air intake design above the front grille.

aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift 4"As well as bespoke wheel designs, the N Line receives a contrasting rear diffuser and a dual-exit sports exhaust, while the predominantly black interior features contrasting red stitching, metal pedals and N logos throughout.

aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift 5"The Kona retains its range-topping 1.6-litre petrol engine, uprated from 130kW to 145kW and available with two- or four-wheel drive, but the same-sized diesel option is now equipped with 48V mild-hybrid functionality as standard for enhanced efficiency. It can be paired with a seven-speed automatic or Hyundai’s new Intelligent Manual Transmission.

aria-label="Hyundai Kona 2020 facelift 22"The model also promises improved ride quality and refinement over its predecessor, gaining a retuned suspension set-up, improved tyres and a recalibrated steering system.

Prices will be announced before the new Kona arrives in early 2021. Hyundai Australia is yet to confirm if a hybrid option will following later. The updated Kona Electric will be revealed “in the near future”, according to the brand.

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