The Hyundai Kona Limited has been updated for the 2024 model year, but thankfully, retains its quirkiness.
With its rugged, dynamic design and upscaled dimensions, the all-new Kona retains its iconic character, supporting active lifestyles for customers of all ages, while offering innovative technologies and convenience features that provide a safe, connected, and comfortable experience.
“The all-new Kona continues to build upon its extremely successful first-generation model, with outstanding efficiency, innovative technologies, distinctive styling, and comprehensive safety features,” said José Muñoz, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “
In an unconventional move, Hyundai developed the new Kona platform with an electrified powertrain first, in line with the company’s accelerated electrification strategy announcement that will bring 11 new Hyundai EVs to market globally by 2030.
The small SUV features a futuristic, EV-centric exterior, that accentuates the Kona’s unique look with an unexpected combination of sleek and rugged design. Kona benefits from a diagonal line that dissects the two side doors on either side, with charcoal plastic-cladded wheel wells that contrast from the “Cyber Gray Metallic” coat of enamel on my tester.
Powered by a 1.6-liter, turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, Kona delivers plentiful power and decent gas mileage. The engine delivers an estimated 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700-4,500 rpm for confident acceleration in city driving. Kona is rated at 32 miles per gallon down the highway by the EPA.
Kona seats up to five adults with a fully foldable second-row seat and rear compartment that provide 25.5 cubic feet of rear cargo volume with rear seat backs up and 63.7 cubic feet with seatbacks folded down, along with improved loading convenience. Loading anything from luggage to shopping bags is made easier than ever with the available “Smart Power Tailgate” that enhances cargo space access.
The new Kona comes with a next-generation infotainment system with advanced graphic user interface and seamless unity among various vehicle displays. Inside, dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens are integrated into the audio-video navigation system to give drivers an immersive widescreen digital experience. While parking, a surround view monitor displays the vehicle from various driver-selectable viewpoints for safe and easy parking.
Creature comforts are plentiful, highlighted by heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheels, ambient lighting, front and rear USB ports, dual automatic temperature control, wireless phone charger, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi Hotspot, power sunroof, navigation system and Bose premium audio all standard.
A large center console allows for handy storage of sunglasses and other paraphernalia, along with two cupholders that proved useful in early morning commutes.
Completing this affordable, family-friendly vehicle, was a substantial suite of safety technologies that provide confidence in any driving conditions.
Kona offers the SmartSense Advanced Driver Assistance System which features Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, High Beam Assist, Surround View Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Rear Occupant Alert/Safe Exit Warning, and Parking Collision Avoidance Assist-Reverse.
Kona also offers available driving convenience functions, such as Smart Cruise Control, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with stop and go, Parking Distance Warning (forward/side/reverse with contour warning), and Remote Start.
Base Price: $33,195
Price As Driven: $33,195
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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