The presentation of the new Hyundai Kauai N is getting closer, but in the meantime, the South Korean brand is opening the “appetite” to its enthusiasts with teaser images that are gradually discovering the high-performance version of the compact SUV of the East Asian manufacturer.
After a categorical debut with the i30 N, Hyundai's high-performance division has already launched the Veloster N (exclusive to the North American market), the i30 N Fastback and the i20 N, which should reach national dealers soon.
Now, Hyundai has applied a similar recipe to its Kauai compact SUV and promises similar results, something we'll only be able to prove when we drive it.
As the first images reveal, the Hyundai Kauai N will present itself with a sportier design than other Kauai, highlighted by its shorter and wider stance.
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This bold and dynamic image, which is already a signature of the “spicier” models of Hyundai, results from the joining of forces between Hyundai N and the Hyundai Design Center.
The result is a model with a front end dominated by generous air intakes and a luminous signature that guarantees an aggressive and robust appearance. The front bumper, inspired by the aeronautical fuselage, wants to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and speed.
Moving towards the rear, what stands out the most is the double-wing spoiler which, in addition to the aerodynamic impact, also helps to reinforce the sporty character of this SUV, integrating it with a peculiar triangular brake light. It also has two huge exhaust outlets impossible to ignore and a large air diffuser.
Decorated with protections in the same color as the bodywork, the Kauai N also has elements reserved for the N models, such as the exclusive design wheels or the red accents present on the side skirts.
What is known?
Hyundai continues to keep the Kauai N's specs “secret of the gods”, but has already confirmed that its new high-performance SUV will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, the same as we already know from the i30 N and Veloster N.
The power that this unit will deliver is still to be announced, although it is expected that it may coincide with the 250 hp of the base version of the renewed i30 N. But will we also have a 280 hp variant with the Performance Package? The question remains…
Right now, the new Hyundai Kauai N will be equipped with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the N DCT, the same one we found on the new i30 N.
These are, for now, all the known details of the Kauai N. It remains for us now to wait for the final presentation of the model, when we will get to know all the secrets of the first “Hot SUV” by Hyundai N. Stay tuned to the website and to Reason Automobile's YouTube channel.