Hyundai Kona N Tuning Guide

Hyundai Kona N Tuning Guide

The Hyundai Kona N combines the versatility of a compact SUV with the performance characteristics of a hot hatch, making it an exciting choice for those who enjoy spirited driving. If you already own a Kona N or are considering purchasing one, you may be curious about the tuning potential of this performance vehicle. Like many modern performance cars, the Kona N has a strong aftermarket following, with several tuning options available to enhance its performance. This guide will walk you through the tuning potential of the Kona N, and how it compares to the facelift Hyundai i30N, which shares a lot of hardware with the Kona N.

If you already know what you're looking for, check out our Kona N aftermarket parts here

Understanding the Hyundai Kona N’s Performance Potential

The Kona N is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 276bhp and 392Nm of torque. This provides strong performance in a compact package, but for those looking for more power or a different driving experience, there are several tuning options available. From ECU remapping to hardware upgrades, the Kona N offers plenty of tuning potential.

Comparing the Kona N and Hyundai i30N Facelift

Before diving into specific tuning options for the Kona N, it’s important to highlight the similarities between it and the facelift Hyundai i30N, especially in terms of hardware. Both vehicles share the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and much of the underlying drivetrain and suspension components. As a result, many of the tuning options available for the i30N facelift are also applicable to the Kona N, with similar results in terms of performance gains.

Both vehicles use a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) transmission, and both have electronically controlled dampers that allow for adjustable suspension settings. The i30N facelift and Kona N both feature a similar turbocharged powertrain and exhaust system, meaning tuning parts such as intake systems, downpipes, and remaps can be shared across both models.

Stage Tuning for the Hyundai Kona N

Tuning the Kona N follows a similar progression to other performance models, generally starting with basic remapping and progressing to more extensive hardware modifications. The concept of “Stage Tuning” is a common way to categorise performance upgrades, with Stage 1 being the most basic, and Stage 3 offering the highest level of performance enhancement. Let’s break down the stages for the Kona N.

Please note - we reference stage tuning in these blogs simply for ease of explanation, "stages" as they're known can be easily identifiable with certain hardware parts and/or processes. We always recommend that you speak with and consult your chosen tuner, they know best!

Stage 1 Tuning – ECU Remap and Basic Upgrades

Stage 1 is the simplest and most cost-effective tuning option. It involves remapping the ECU to optimise engine performance, often improving both power and torque without changing any physical components of the engine.

• ECU Remap: An ECU remap or chip tuning will alter the engine’s software to increase power output. For the Kona N, a Stage 1 remap can provide gains of around 20-30bhp, pushing the output closer to 300bhp. This is a popular option as it’s relatively simple and doesn’t require any mechanical modifications.
• Air Intake: Replacing the stock air intake with a high-flow intake can improve airflow into the engine, further enhancing the benefits of a remap. JXL Performance recommends the Forge Motorsport Induction Kit for Hyundai i30N, Kona N & Veloster N
• Exhaust: A performance downpipe or cat-back exhaust system is another common upgrade at this stage. These parts allow the engine to breathe better and can improve both performance and sound, though some exhaust mods may affect emissions and legality for MOT purposes. JXL Performance recommends the Remus Hyundai Kona N GPF-Back Exhaust System

Stage 1 tuning is typically safe for daily driving, as it doesn’t stress the engine beyond its factory limits. However, it’s important to ensure any tuning is carried out by a reputable professional who can optimise the map for the best balance between performance and reliability.

Stage 2 Tuning – Hardware Upgrades

Stage 2 tuning steps up the performance significantly by replacing or upgrading specific engine components. At this stage, your Kona N will require more significant hardware changes to support higher levels of power.

• Intercooler: A larger intercooler is a common addition at Stage 2 to keep intake temperatures lower, which helps the engine produce more power without overheating. JXL Performance recommends AIRTEC Motorsport Front Mount Intercooler for Hyundai Kona N
• Enhanced Exhaust System: Stage 2 often involves further exhaust upgrades, such as a larger downpipe or high-flow catalytic converter to increase exhaust flow and reduce turbo lag. Please check your vehicle will still pass relevant local vehicle tests (such as MOT, TUV etc, as downpipes can alter emissions)

Stage 2 tuning is more involved and will have a more noticeable impact on performance. However, it can also put more strain on the engine, so regular maintenance and monitoring of the engine’s health are recommended. Please note that because the Kona N is a very new vehicle, we are expecting to see more and more aftermartket support given the success of the i30N and recent i20N. Keep your eyes on our Kona N landing page for the very best, and newest products to market. 

Legal Considerations and MOT

When tuning your Kona N, particularly with upgrades like downpipes, larger turbos, or modified exhaust systems, it’s important to consider the potential impact on your car’s MOT and road legality. Some performance modifications, such as non-cat exhausts or remaps that push emissions beyond legal limits, could result in your vehicle failing an MOT test.

• Exhaust Systems: Any modifications to the exhaust system, particularly the removal of the catalytic converter, can affect emissions. Ensure that any exhaust upgrades comply with UK emissions standards, as this could impact your car’s MOT.
• ECU Remaps: ECU remaps are generally legal as long as they do not exceed the car’s emission limits. However, it’s crucial to choose a remap that optimises performance without negatively impacting fuel consumption or emissions.
• Track Use: If you plan to use your Kona N primarily on track, some of the more extreme Stage 2 or Stage 3 modifications may be more suitable, but bear in mind they may affect the car’s roadworthiness for general driving.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Kona N offers exciting tuning potential, with options ranging from simple ECU remaps to more complex hardware upgrades. Thanks to its shared platform with the facelift Hyundai i30N, many of the tuning parts and upgrades are interchangeable, which increases the available options for performance enthusiasts.

Whether you're looking to give your Kona N a modest performance boost or transform it into a high-performance machine, there are plenty of tuning options available. However, it’s important to be mindful of the legality of modifications, particularly in terms of emissions and MOT compliance. Always ensure that your tuning choices align with both your performance goals and legal requirements for road use in the UK.