Hyundai reveals its latest Kona, a strong contender to compete in the “reasonably-priced” compact SUV segment.
Hyundai just released the details of its all-new 2024 Kona at the 2023 New York Auto Show. Like before, customers can choose between an electric or ICE-powered model and several trims, including Electric, Limited, and N Line. Also, it retains its predecessor’s form as a compact SUV, competing against the Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Soul, and such.
Interestingly, Hyundai claims its small SUV was primarily developed as an EV before making the gasoline version. According to the Korean manufacturer, this move results in Kona’s EV-centric look, combining a sleek but rugged design. And although the 2024MY is slightly larger than the outgoing model, it produces a very low drag coefficient of only 0.27 — just 0.07 more than the Mercedes-Benz EQS, the world’s most aerodynamic production car.
As for the ICE variants, the Limited gets additional vents for cooling, a unique wheel design, and contrasting black wheel arches. Meanwhile, the N Line model adds body-colored wheel arches, a subtle rear spoiler, sporty 19-inch wheels, black mirror caps, redesigned bumpers, and larger exhaust tips. That said, Hyundai says whether it’ll make a full-blown N-model or not is still under consideration.
In addition, the EV-focused platform allows the Kona to have two battery options — a 64.8 kWh producing a pretty good 201 hp and a new, smaller 48.6 kWh battery churning out a rather low 133 hp. Still, despite not sharing Ioniq 5’s impressive E-GMP platform, the ranges offered by the new Kona EVs are quite decent, with 260 miles for the Long-Range variant and 197 miles for the Standard Range model. As for charging speed, the battery can be juiced up from 10% to 80% in just about 43 minutes with 400V fast charging. Unfortunately, no AWD Kona EV is available, at least for now.
Luckily, Hyundai’s love for the ICE hasn’t stopped, and its latest small SUV will still be offered with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit producing 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque on the base Limited trim. However, both the Limited and N Line trim offers a much punchier 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, churning out 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. According to Hyundai, the 2.0-liter is aimed for greater efficiency thanks to the Atkinson Cycle and CVT transmission, while the 1.6-liter turbo is designed for brisk acceleration, hence the conventional eight-speed automatic.
Inside, you’ll find a more spacious cabin than before, with tons of storage space. Also, the Kona’s new dashboard resembles what you’d find in the Hyundai Ioniq 5, meaning a strong high-tech vibe here. But the shiniest part is arguably the dual 12.3-inch curved screen housing the vehicle’s infotainment and entertainment system. We’re also fans of physical buttons for the dash and steering wheel controls.
Considering the ICE variants are priced between $24.000-33.000, and the EV starts from $35.000, the Kona lineup is priced quite competitively. Expect ICE models to hit local dealerships during summer and EVs a little later next fall, both coming straight from Korea.
Gallery: 2024 Hyundai Kona
