The Kona has been a successful name for Hyundai in the global markets. The car surely has its unique place in the Indian markets as an efficient, powerful and a well-rounded package as an EV. The ICE model of Kona has been in global markets in quite some time and has produced good outputs for the brand. A teaser, recently released by Hyundai boasted a few design elements from the 2021 Kona facelift.
About 2021 Hyundai Kona
Design
The teaser video has not much (nothing) to offer on the mechanical factors of the vehicle but it did bring into light some major design changes. The front has been entirely reworked. Hyundai has done away with the hexagonal grille which is currently seen on the Kona.
We now see a sleeker grille and an overall sharp and sleek design which makes up for a future proof design. The DRLs have been given a bolder look along with new triple array headlamps. The teaser also showed a redesigned front and rear bumper along with redesigned skidplates.
These components give the car a wider stance but it is not clear if the dimensions have actually been changed or if these are just design tweaks. The car is built on sensuous sportiness theme which could be expected for other models as well.
Features
As already discussed not much has been given away regarding the features on the facelift. All that could be made out was a new infotainment system, some minor changes in the cabin and some new driver assistance features.
Mechanicals
Only speculations can be mad regarding mechanicals on the new Kona. We could expect a new powertrain in the global markets. Nothing can be said about Indian markets as we have the electric variant of the car only.
N-line treatment
The facelift will also introduce a performance-oriented N-badged trim, the Kona N has been the talking point for quite some time now. This would be an elder sibling to Kona. The design is expected to be beefed up with more cladding giving it a more rugged appeal and also the major changes in this car would be regarding the engine unit.
The Kona N performance variant has been caught testing a few times and is expected to feature a 1.6L petrol-turbo engine (200hp+) and a bespoke chassis. The design of the N trim is considered more aerodynamic.
Will it come to India?
There is no information if the facelift will be launched in Indian markets or if we will see an ICE unit Kona in India. The car is currently sold in India in EV variant only at a price of around Rs 24 lakh (ex-showroom) with a 39.2 kWh battery unit producing 136 bhp and a claimed range of 452 km.
