September 2, 2020 - New Hyundai Kona presents itself renewed, with a series of updates, inspired by the advice of European customers: a new design - which for the first time includes the possibility to choose also the N Line sports equipment - able to give the model a new dynamic look; a renewed range of powertrain, renewed powertrain, with the addition of new eco-friendly and "sporty" versions; improved connectivity, together with its functionality, making the road driving experience even more comfortable. All this, and more, allows the new Kona to be an even better product for Hyundai's European customers.
Kona has been a success story for Hyundai in Europe since its introduction in 2017, with a rapidly growing market share. In just three years, this compact SUV has become one of the most popular Hyundai models in Europe: more than 228,000 units have been sold in Europe since its launch. Its design has been consistently praised by customers and critics alike and has won major awards including the iF Design Award, Red Dot Award 2018 and IDEA design award 2018.
Kona plays a key role in Hyundai's electrification strategy, combining electrified powertrains with the style of compact SUVs. It was the first Hyundai SUV available with a range of electrified motors, including a full-hybrid and 100% electric version. Starting in March, Hyundai started production of Kona Electric at its production facility in the Czech Republic, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech (HMMC). Hyundai now extends the electrification of the Kona range with the introduction of mild hybrid 48-volt technology on diesel and gasoline engines.
"Customers are demanding more SUVs and electrified solutions. Hyundai is responding with a combination of both. Kona has played a key role in Hyundai's success in recent years in Europe, becoming one of the most popular models," said Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Vice President Marketing & Product at Hyundai Motor Europe. "For this reason it is important for us to strengthen and improve the model so that we can continue to provide our customers with the best possible product".
Kona N Line: sporty, state-of-the-art design
New Kona will be available for the first time in the N Line version, which combines driving fun with exciting style. Kona N Line stands out for its sporty front and rear, body-colored exterior details and dedicated rims with two-tone finish.
The front of Kona N Line stands out thanks to the dynamic characteristics of the front bumper, which combines harmoniously with the body-colored wheel arches. Unlike the solid "skid plate" shelter of the new Kona, the N Line version features a characteristic N-style aerodynamic spoiler, with angled fins that give it an enveloping style. The wider and more technical air intakes are further characterized by a unique design and a dedicated surface treatment.
The side view features body-colored details and the new rocker panel, combined with the new 18-inch alloy wheels with dedicated design.
The rear view completes the dynamic and emotional image of Kona N Line. The rear bumper incorporates a large central aerodynamic diffuser in a contrasting color to the bodywork, as well as a dual side exhaust. At the rear corners, the bumper fascia is formed by sharp lines and N-style fins for improved aerodynamics.
The interior is now available with a dedicated N Line package in black with fabric, leather or suede seats. In addition, the distinctive red stitching, metal pedals and the N logo on the gear knob give the model an even sportier touch.
A refined and modern design for the new Kona
Hyundai Kona has become an icon in its segment, with a bold and innovative design combined with an adventurous personality. Updates to the front and rear design give the new Kona an even more refined and modern look, while maintaining its characteristic robustness.
The design of the new front end is distinguished by its sporty look and attractive wheel arches. At the top, the extended hood ends energetically on the central grille with a wide and distinctive shape. This effect is further enhanced by the wide, slim DLR headlights with LED technology. Further down, the main bumper fascia connects seamlessly to the wheel arches, forming a unique and robust shell made of a material that contrasts with the main bodywork.
On the lower bumper, the solid skid plate shield seems to embrace the lower air intake and gives visual continuity to the shape of the main upper grille. Integrated in the corners of the bumper are the vertically oriented aerodynamic intakes, which improve airflow.
The side view maintains the muscular and sculpted shape of the previous Kona, but the sporty wedge-shaped silhouette is further accentuated by the sharper, cleaner and more harmonious front.
At the rear, the new headlights feature horizontally elongated graphics, reflecting the unique identity of the front signature. The new rear bumper is also made of a contrasting material, increasing the protective armor feel.
In addition, the new Kona features an updated design for 17- and 18-inch rims, in addition to the 16-inch rims already featured in the previous version. Kona Hybrid will be available with the same 16- or 18-inch wheels as the current version.
In terms of dimensions, the new Kona is 40 mm longer than the previous version, giving it a more elegant and dynamic look, balancing its wide and robust presence on the road.
In addition to the five existing colors, the new Kina is available in five new exterior colors: Surfy Blue, Dive in Jeju, Ignite Flame, Cyber Gray and Misty Jungle. Each color can be combined with the contrasting Phantom Black roof, which also matches the mirror housings, emphasizing the sporty and elegant look of the model and offering customers more options for customization.
New Kona and New Kona N Line exterior colors:
- Ignite Flame [new]
- Cyber Gray [new]
- Surfy Blue [new]
- Dive in Jeju [new]
- Misty Jungle [new]
- Phantom Black
- Chalk White
- Dark Knight
- Pulse Red
- Galaxy Gray
Interior design news
The interior of the new Kona has been designed to express a more modern and innovative look than the previous version. They are characterized by a solid yet refined look to match the bold exterior design and to attract customers with a more active lifestyle. All this adds up to a significant technological improvement, which gives the interior a new level of perceived quality.
The new console area is disconnected from the dashboard to emphasize the horizontal structure and the dashboard appears large and airy to create a generous and spacious atmosphere. Now there is the new electric parking brake, installed following the customers' instructions.
A new ambient light provides illumination of the cup holder in the center cabinet and the compartment at the foot of the passenger and driver, emphasizing the lifestyle character of Kona.
The new air intake and speaker displays with their aluminum finish give a superior feel and refinement.
New Kona interiors are complemented by new colors and materials. New seat upholstery options include a black fabric with checkered weave or black and gray finishes and black, beige or khaki perforated leather seats.
The black checkered fabric seats, with modern, industrial-inspired textures, accentuate the linear seat upholstery, finely spun in its three-dimensional pattern. The black and gray fabric seats, with their shadows and dark shades in different anthracite gray tones, create sophisticated images. The optional leather seats show an elegant Scottish texture that is also reflected in the perforation of the material. Both the texture and the colors of the leather seats harmonize the dynamism of the interior range.
As an alternative to dark interiors, the new Kona is also available with light beige upholstery, which accentuates the fresh look already seen on the door panels and seats. As an alternative to the black and beige versions, khaki leather seats and the khaki center console, which offer a natural and stylish look, are available as an option.
Color packages:
- Two-tone light beige (leather) [new]
- Khaki (leather) [new]
Base color:
- One-tone black (fabric or leather)
Connectivity and technology
New Kona has the latest connectivity and technology on board.
New to the model is a 10.25" digital cluster, which debuted on the all-new i20 for the first time. In addition, the the new Kona also features a 10.25" central touchscreen display, which brings new connectivity features. The new AVN (Audio Video Navigation) screen also features split-screen multitasking functionality and can accommodate multiple Bluetooth connections.
In addition, the latest Bluelink update includes Last Mile Navigation, Connected Routing, Live Parking Information and much more. With the new "User Profile" function, drivers can also transfer their favorite settings from one Hyundai car to another. Last Mile Navigation, instead, allows customers to continue their journey to their final destination, even after parking, receiving directions in augmented reality or via Google Maps. With the new "Connected Routing" navigation, routes are calculated on a server in the Bluelink cloud. Finally, Live Parking Information provides users with real-time information about the location and price of available parking spaces in the vicinity. In addition, the latest Bluelink update includes free text search to allow users to enter addresses or points of interest.
As standard, the new Kona is equipped with Audio Display from 7 to 8 inches and includes DAB radio. It has also been upgraded with Android Auto and Apple Car Play wirelessly, allowing occupants to use their iOS and Android smartphones without a cable and take advantage of its features in an even more convenient and immediate way.
Advanced safety and assisted driving
The new Kona features a range of safety and assisted driving features for greater peace of mind for drivers and occupants.Smart Cruise Control (SCC) has been updated and now includes the Stop&Go function. The Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), available in combination with the DCT gearbox, has also been improved, activating the vehicle's brakes to prevent a collision if another vehicle is detected near the blind spot and the driver attempts to change lanes.
A new feature of the model is the Restart Warning (LDVA), which alerts the driver when the vehicle in front of him starts to advance, for example at traffic lights. Added to this is the Lane Following Assist (LFA), which automatically adjusts the steering to keep the car in the middle of its lane.
Among the updated features is also the Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vehicle, Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection that uses a sensor, in addition to a camera, to better detect potential collisions. The new system increases the detection radius and the types of subjects that can be detected ensuring the operation of the system even in adverse weather conditions. If the system detects a potential collision and the driver does not react in time, the brakes are activated automatically.
Making its debut on The new Kona is the Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) - available only with the DCT gearbox - which prevents a collision during reversing by applying the brakes if another vehicle is detected. This is an update from the previously available collision warning, which provided only an audible warning.
Another unique system is the Rear Seat Alert (RSA), which alerts the driver by detecting the presence of people and objects on the rear couch when the vehicle is closed. For maximum protection of children there is also the Safety Exit Warning (SEW) which prevents passengers from getting out of the vehicle if it is not yet safe to do so by preventing possible accidents if the doors open when other vehicles arrive.
Finally, the Speed Limit Recognition uses the multi-function camera and information from the navigation system to identify the current speed limit and display it on both the navigator display and the cluster display. If the driver exceeds the speed limit, a visual warning appears on the cluster.
In addition, The new Kona is now available with eCall, a feature that automatically alerts emergency services if the e-Call button is pressed or airbags are activated.
Hyundai SmartSense Active Safety Features
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) [NEW].
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) [NEW].
- Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop&Go [NEW].
- Restart Notice (LVDA) [NEW].
- Lane Following Assist (LFA) [NEW].
- Speed Limit Recognition (ISLW) [NEW].
- Safety Exit Warning (SEW) [NEW].
- Rear Seat Alert (RSA) [NEW].
- Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vehicle, Pedestrian (FCA) Detection (now with [NEW] Cyclist Detection)
Other security features:
- e-call [NEW]
Comfort and habitability
A series of new functionality features now provide a more comfortable ride for rear seat passengers who can count on a new USB port and heated seats. Front row passengers can also adjust the seat height for an optimized seating position while driving.
New engine options for sporty and environmentally conscious customers
The new Kona's powertrain range reaches new heights in terms of sustainability and adds the lightweight 48-volt hybrid system: this technology is applied to the 1.6-liter Smartstream diesel engine with 136 hp and is available with a seven-speed 7DCT gearbox or an intelligent six-speed manual transmission (6iMT), which can be combined with all-wheel drive. The 1.0-liter Smartstream T-GDI gasoline engine with 120 hp can also be equipped with lightweight 48-volt hybrid technology and 6iMT transmission for greater efficiency.
The clutch of the iMT, which debuted for the first time on the new i30 and the brand new i20, works in electronic mode instead of the traditional mechanical connection. The iMT disconnects the engine from the transmission after the driver releases the throttle ensuring greater efficiency: this allows the car to enter two possible levels of coasting mode, depending on conditions. In the first level the engine idles while in the second level the engine is temporarily shut down to save even more fuel.
The engine restarts in the same gear as soon as the driver presses the brake or accelerator pedal, thanks to the power provided by the Mild Hybrid Starter Generator.
The 1.0-litre T-GDI Smartstream engine is also available without the Mild Hybrid technology, while at the top of the performance is a 1.6-litre T-GDI Smartstream engine powered by a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, bringing maximum power to 198 hp. All engines are available with the new N Line equipment.
The Kona Full Hybrid system
The new Kona is also available with the Full Hybrid engine, which made its debut in the range in 2019: a 1.6-liter GDI engine is joined by a permanent magnet electric motor for a combined power of 141 hp, combined with a 6-speed double-clutch automatic transmission and two-wheel drive. The 32 kW electric motor is powered by a 1.56 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery.
Driving and handling improvements for greater comfort
The technical updates aim to make driving smoother than the current model. The suspension has been adjusted to increase comfort, without sacrificing the sporty character of Kona. Together with springs and shock absorbers, the stabilizer bars have been retouched to provide superior ride comfort and increased insulation.
The new Kona is also equipped with improved energy class tires for all sizes, featuring lower rolling resistance for more efficient driving. The 18-inch Conti Sport Contact 5 tires have been replaced by Conti Premium Contact 6 tires with the aim of optimizing ride comfort qualities. This means that drivers can expect greater efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, while benefiting from better noise insulation than before. This creates an excellent balance between eco-driving and sportiness. In addition, several vehicle components have been refurbished to improve the control of noise, vibration and roughness of the vehicle's ride (NVH), further increasing comfort inside the passenger compartment.
The steering has been tuned to adapt to the new character of the suspension and the new tires. The new Kona shows more direct and comfortable steering behavior. The steering effort required is more linear and well balanced at all speeds.
The same steering configuration applies to the entire Kona range. The only exception is the brand new Kona N Line, combined with the 1.6 T-GDI engine and all-wheel drive, which has received a specific steering tuning to match the sporty character of the vehicle.
New Kona and Kona N Line will arrive in Hyundai showrooms around the end of 2020, while New Kona Hybrid will be marketed from early 2021.
FAQs
What's the difference between the Kona N and the Kona N line? ›
The Hyundai Kona N Line uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that creates 195 horsepower and a 7-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Kona N uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that creates 276 horsepower and an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
What does N Line mean Hyundai Kona? ›All Kona, no N. The N Line might borrow the letter signifying Hyundai's motorsports arm, but its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder packs just 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Performance is ample for the segment, but not for the checks its sporty body work is trying to cash.
When was the Hyundai Kona updated? ›The new Hyundai Kona will be released in summer 2023.
What are the changes in the Hyundai model 2024? ›The 2024 Kona is about 6 inches longer and slightly wider, with a rear opening that is both taller and wider. It also looks markedly different than its predecessor, with the Seamless Horizon Lamp (full-width LED unibrow) being both distinctive and a first for Hyundai.
Which trim of Kona is best? ›To have the most premium 2022 Hyundai Kona, choose the Limited trim level. The 2022 Hyundai Kona Limited has a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, making sure you'll be able to see everything you need while driving around the Orlando area.
What Kia is equal to Hyundai Kona? ›The Hyundai Kona is slightly shorter than the Kia Seltos, which may make it easier to park. The Hyundai Kona has the same turning radius as the Kia Seltos, so they both maneuver the same in and out of tight spots.
Does the Kona N Line require premium fuel? ›On the upside, the Kona N Line makes about 50 more ponies than its SE siblings and still achieves similar fuel efficiency—32 mpg combined. And for all you penny pinchers, Hyundai recommends using regular 87-octane rather than premium as in many higher-performance turbo engines.
What is special about Hyundai N-Line? ›What does N stand for? N is the official name of Hyundai's high-performance brand. If you look at German carmakers like Mercedes AMG, BMW M, Audi RS, and Volkswagen R, it's easy to see that the N stands for high performance.
Does the Kona N Line have leather seats? ›The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a small SUV with upgraded styling, intelligent technology and a versatile, accommodating cabin. The new Hyundai Kona offers plenty of interior sophistication with premium leather-trimmed seating surfaces on Limited or N Line sport seats on N Line as well as a couple interior color options.
What is the wait time for a new Hyundai Kona? ›What is the life of a Hyundai Kona? ›
Drive it like a Hyundai and you can expect a life expectancy max of 200,000 miles.
How reliable is the new Hyundai Kona? ›The 2023 Hyundai Kona has a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100.
What is Hyundai discontinuing? ›Hyundai Accent
After a long and successful run, Hyundai is discontinuing the model for the 2023 model year to focus on its range of SUVs. The Accent was a great subcompact car, with excellent build quality, a 7-inch touchscreen, up to 36 mpg combined, and a roomy interior with useable rear seats.
According to RepairPal, Hyundai boasts a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking 4th out of all 32 car brands. In addition, Hyundai ownership is on the inexpensive side, with only $468 annual repair costs of scheduled and unscheduled repairs. That's way below the $652 average across all vehicle models.
What car did Hyundai cancel? ›Hyundai N Vision 74
Why was the project ultimately scrapped? The higher-ups in Seoul thought the projected asking price of $150,000 would've been too high for a Hyundai-badged model.
If you're in the market for a family car that isn't too large nor too cramped, read on as we compare two mini SUVs: the Hyundai Kona and the Kia Stonic. There are a fair amount of similarities across the two cars. Hyundai and Kia are sister companies, so there is a lot of crossover here.
Why is the Hyundai Kona only sold in certain states? ›You see, not all EVs are sold in all 50 states, usually for one of two reasons: Either state-by-state emissions requirements drive automakers' choices on where to sell their limited supply of EVs (see: Honda and Hyundai), or upstart automakers have only company-owned dealers and direct sales to customers (see: Lucid, ...
Is a Hyundai Kona or Tucson bigger? ›Comparison Review
Passengers in the backseat will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Hyundai Tucson than in the Hyundai Kona, due to its greater head- and legroom. As far as headroom and legroom go, there's not much difference between front seat comfort in the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai Tucson.
Noise, Vibration, & Harshness – The 2022 Hyundai Kona N-Line has a generally quiet cabin.
Can I put premium gas in my Hyundai Kona? ›The Hyundai Kona runs on regular unleaded gas. There's no need to upgrade to premium gas.
What is the gas mileage on the Hyundai Kona N line? ›
The 2023 Hyundai Kona N Line and Limited trims offer an upgraded 195-hp 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder engine with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission with SHIFTRONIC that delivers an EPA-estimated 29 city and 35 highway mpg, while the same models with available AWD deliver an EPA-estimated 27 city and 32 highway mpg ...
What is the difference between N Line and N Line Premium? ›As well as a 25 per cent power bump over standard models, the N Line variants get larger brakes – up from 280mm to 305mm – while the N Line Premium gets heated and ventilated seats, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen (up from 8.0 inches) with satellite navigation, DAB+ digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ...
Which Hyundai N model is best? ›Hyundai's hot hatch presence started with the i30 N, and it remains its best N model, and after a recent update that focused on small but meaningful elements, it's now the best hot hatchback money can buy.
Which Hyundai N line is fastest? ›2022 Hyundai Kona N
The 2022 Hyundai Kona N is the first Hyundai SUV from its performance N division. It can do a 0-60 mph sprint in just 5.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 150 mph.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV offers a broad range of variants to please many types of buyers. Prices start at $21,990 and climb to $34,700 for the Hyundai Kona N.
Why is my Hyundai Kona struggling to start? ›The most common reasons a Hyundai Kona won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. Search our network of RepairPal Certified shops near you to speak with a technician about your issue.
Where are Hyundai Kona cars built? ›| First generation (OS) | |
|---|---|
| Production | 2017–present 2018–2020 (China) |
| Model years | 2018–2023 |
| Assembly | South Korea: Ulsan (Ulsan Plant 1) China: Beijing (Beijing Hyundai) Czech Republic: Nošovice (HMMC, electric only) India: Chennai (HMIL, electric only) Vietnam: Ninh Bình (HTMV) Algeria: Tiaret ( TMC ) |
How often does a 2022 Hyundai Kona need an Oil Change? An oil change is one of the most basic and essential services for your car. Synthetic oil frequently should be changed every 7,500 - 10,000 miles. Hyundai suggests getting your 2022 Hyundai Kona oil & filter changed every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil.
Is Hyundai Kona being recalled? ›Which Hyundai Kona Models Have Been Recalled? The 2021 recall covers close to 126,000 total units, including model year 2019-2021 Konas as well as model year 2019-2020 Hyundai Elantras and model year 2019-2021 Hyundai Velosters.
How many miles can a Hyundai Kona go on a full tank? ›2021 Hyundai Kona Driving Range
Some of the all-wheel drive models, including the Ultimate AWD and Limited AWD, get around 343.2 city miles and 382.8 highway miles per tank.
Is Hyundai Kona good for long distance driving? ›
You can drive the Hyundai Kona on the highway, but you might not want to. This SUV is made for city driving, making passing difficult, accelerating off an exit troublesome, and dealing with wind on the highway problematic for you.
How are Hyundai konas in the snow? ›CarMax claims that Kona subcompact SUVs generally do well in snow. Of course, for the best Kona experience in tricky terrain, you'll want all-wheel drive and all-season tires. The Kona is available with all-wheel drive for an additional $1,500. Not too shabby at all.
How many miles per gallon does a KONA N-line get? ›| 2022 Hyundai Kona N | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Premium Gasoline |
| 23 MPG 20 27 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 4.3 gal/100mi | |
| 304 miles Total Range |
The 2022 Hyundai Kona is offered in three trim levels, including: SE, SEL, and Limited. (A sportier version of the 2022 Kona is offered in the N-Line trim, which features a more athletic exterior and several varied interior trim options.)
Which Hyundai Kona is the fastest? ›Which 2022 Hyundai Kona trims are the fastest? The 2022 Hyundai Kona N, Hyundai Kona Electric, Hyundai Kona N-Line and Hyundai Kona Limited trims are the fastest with a 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds, 6.4 seconds, 7.9 seconds and 7.9 seconds respectively.
Is the KONA N-Line Electric? ›Hyundai's rollout of the new, second-generation Kona has reached its crescendo as the Korean brand revealed details for the all-electric version of its redesigned subcompact crossover. But while gas-, hybrid-, and battery-powered versions of Kona and Kona N-Line are part of the plan, one trim was conspicuously absent.
What is the fuel economy of a 2023 Kona N Line? ›What is the gas mileage of the 2023 Hyundai Kona? The new 2023 Hyundai Kona is a small, upgraded SUV with exceptional fuel-efficiency. The new Hyundai Kona is capable of achieving an EPA-estimated 30 city and 35 highway mpg when equipped with the standard 147-hp 2.0L MPI Atkinson 4-cylinder and FWD on SE and SEL trims.
What is the mpg on a Hyundai Kona N Line AWD? ›The EPA estimates that the Kona N should deliver 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, which is significantly less efficient than the regular one.
Does Kona N Line have leather seats? ›The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a small SUV with upgraded styling, intelligent technology and a versatile, accommodating cabin. The new Hyundai Kona offers plenty of interior sophistication with premium leather-trimmed seating surfaces on Limited or N Line sport seats on N Line as well as a couple interior color options.
Which Kona has leather seats? ›Hyundai Kona Limited
The Kona Limited is fully loaded with heated leather seats and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Does the Hyundai Kona sit high? ›
Dashboard and Driving Position
The driver's seat in the 2022 Hyundai Kona is set a few centimeters high, so you'll feel as if you're behind the wheel of something higher than the ordinary hatchback.
The rule is allowing Hyundai to ensure, at least temporarily, that its EVs remain competitive in the US by being eligible for the full $7,500 credit. The revamped US EV tax credit has a number of strict rules that make most EVs ineligible, though many of those official rules haven't gone into place yet.
Does Kona N Line have heated seats? ›Heated and ventilated seats.
Warm in winter and cool in summer.
The all-new KONA N was announced earlier this year. The high-performance SUV is being produced at Hyundai's production site in Ulsan, Korea and will arrive in European showrooms this summer.