The 2022 Kona and Kona Electric arrive with a refreshed front fascia, improved trim levels, and a new CVT.
The Hyundai Kona made waves in the industry when it entered the compact crossover/SUV segment in 2018. Since then, the segment has seen an exponential increase in popularity, with major manufacturers getting into action and releasing new models.
To better cope with the competition, Hyundai introduced a host of upgrades to the 2022 Kona and Kona Electric, which should help it continue appealing to customers.
The 2022 Kona will come with design updates and both combustion-engine and electric versions. Furthermore, the company is planning to launch an N Line variant of the ICE Kona.
Two Engines and Two Transmissions on Offer
The standard Kona features a 2.0L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine, producing 147 HP and 132 lb-ft of torque. However, Hyundai replaced the six-speed automatic gearbox with its spin on CVT, called the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).
Meanwhile, the limited variant will come with a turbocharged 1.6L engine churning out 195 HP and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for quicker shifts.
Hyundai is also introducing an N Line variant with the same powerplant as the Kona Limited. However, the N Line also comes with redesigned front and rear bumpers, a sportier design, and new 18-inch wheels. N Line pedals, sporty shifter, and a choice of leather or suede seats are also on the menu.
The 2022 Kona’s dashboard is also revamped, now with a bigger 10.3-inch touchscreen than the previous generation, and a digital instrument cluster.
Furthermore, there are now USB ports for the rear-seat passengers with ambient lighting over the cupholders. The 2022 Kona is also safer, featuring a lane keep assist system, keeping the car inside the lane if it was to deviate, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go control.
The 2022 Kona Electric Receives Even Bigger Visual Updates
Another version hitting the market is the 2022 Kona Electric, also a refresh of the 2018 model. There are many visual changes in the electric version, including a new flowing front bumper, closed-off grille, thin headlamps, and sinister-looking daytime running lamps.
However, not everything is an improvement. Namely, in the previous-gen car, the charging port was hidden behind the quasi-grille, and it was almost invisible. Now, though, it is painfully visible to the naked eye, messing with the overall aesthetic. Hyundai should’ve done better here.
Regardless, the 2022 Kona Electric still gets a respectable 256-mile range from its 64-kWh battery pack and a 201 HP and 291 lb-ft electric motor powering the front wheels. Not bad.
Interestingly, for better versatility, the Kona Electric supports many charging options. For instance, a level 2 charger can charge the battery pack from 0 to 80% in 9 hours, while a level 3 charger can do the same in only 47 minutes.
Furthermore, the 2022 Kona Electric has most of the bells and whistles introduced in the standard variant, including the 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display.
Although Hyundai hasn’t released prices for the new Kona yet, we expect the Standard Kona and the N Line variant to cost between $20,000-$30,000, while the Kona Electric will set you back closer to $38,000.
2022 Kona Limited
2022 Kona N Line
2022 Kona Electric
