Hyundai has expanded its ‘N’ performance line-up with a bespoke version of the Kona SUV.

Priced from £35,395, the Kona N joins the i30 N and i20 N and gets a host of motorsport-inspired upgrades.

It’s powered by a 280hp 2.0-litre turbocharged GDI engine with an upgraded eight-speed dual-clutch N DCT transmission and capable of a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds.

The Kona N provides three different driving modes. N Power Shift engages when the car accelerates with more than 90% of throttle and mitigates any reduction in torque during upshifts to deliver maximum power to the wheels.

N Grin Shift maximises engine and DCT performance for 20 seconds, directly shifting down to the most appropriate gear and delivers maximum performance with one press of the NGS button.

Finally, N Track Sense Shift optimises gearshifts for racetrack driving, helping the driver to focus more on steering, to provide optimal performance.

The Kona N also comes with an Electronic Controlled Suspension that can be optimised for a variety of driving situations, while the Electronic Stability Control can be turned off.

Exterior design brings body-coloured design elements with N-exclusive red accents, a larger bumper and lowered ride height, plus N-exclusive alloy wheels in a dark satin finish, red brake calipers and exclusive side sills in red. It also features a large, double-wing roof spoiler.

It’s available in a bespoke Sonic Blue as well as a choice of other exterior colours.

The interior features N-specific seats, steering wheel, shift knob and metal pedals. It’s equipped with a 10-inch infotainment and digital cluster system featuring an exclusive racing head-up display, able to communicate updates such as lap time and N track maps.

Standard technologies also include wireless device charging, parking sensors and reversing camera, smart key, adaptive cruise control and a Krell eight-speaker premium audio system.

Advanced driver assistance system features, include forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, driver attention warning, high beam assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance alert, safe exit warning and smart cruise control.

The Kona N comes with Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty and roadside assistance package, a five-year annual health check, and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.