2024 Hyundai Kona First Drive: The Second-Generation Subcompact Crossovers Grows And Adds More High-Tech Features

What’s Unique: According to Hyundia's communication team, the second-generation Kona was designed and created as an electric vehicle. although its available with two gasoline powertrains.  

What’s New: Hyundai’s roomier and larger Kona is new inside and out, offering tech features and a variety of powertrains.

Where Tested?  We spent a few hours testing the vehicle in Charleston, South Carolina.  Gadsden's Wharf, which is located in downtown Charleston, is the site where an estimated 40 percent of all American enslaved Africans arrived in the U.S. The International African American Museum, which opened in July 2023 and is the second largest African American museum in the country, overlooks the wharf and houses all of this history. 

Seating: 4 and (5 is a tight squeeze)

2023 Hyundai Kona N: The Brand’s Subcompact Performance Crossover

Highlights: Its all about the horsepower with the Kona N. It's a great alternative to sports cars.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $36,645 (Base N Line): $29,185

Seating Capacity: 4

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; a stability control system; a tire pressure monitoring system; a blind-spot collision warning system; a rear cross-traffic collision warning system; a forward collision assist system with pedestrian protection; a lane following assist system; a lane keeping assist system; a Blue Link connected car service; and a temporary spare tire

2022 Hyundai Kona Limited: The Brand’s Affordable All-Electric Subcompact Crossover

 

Highlight: According to Hyundai, the Kona was the first Hyundai SUV available with a fully-electrified powertrain in the U.S.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $43,840 (Base SEL): $34,375 

Seating Capacity: 4 (Hyundai says 5)

Standard Safety Features: air bags; ABS; rear view camera; forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection; automatic high beam assist; an electronic blind-spot collision avoidance assist with a rear cross-traffic; traction control system; a lane keep assist system; a radar activated stop-and-go system; a lane following assist system; a stability system; a hill start assist system; tire pressure monitoring system; a parking distance warning system; and a tire mobility kit

2020 Hyundai Kona Ultimate: The Korean Brand’s Entry-Level Compact Crossover

Highlight: The Kona is available in all-electric configuration.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $28,980 (Base model: $20,840)

Seating Capacity: 4 (super tight fit in the back seat)

Standard Safety Features:  ABS; airbags; a tire pressure monitoring system; automatic headlights; a blind spot driver’s mirror; a downhill brake control; a hillstart assist control; a forward collision assist system; a lane keep assist system; a backup camera; a remote keyless entry system; stability control system; a traction control system; and a compact spare tire

2018 Hyundai Kona Ultimate AWD: The Korean Brand’s Newest Compact Crossover

Highlight: The Kona is outfitted with the same base engine that is found in the Veloster.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $29,850 (Base model: $20,840)

Seating Capacity: 4 (super tight fit in the back seat)

Standard Safety Features:  ABS; airbags; a tire pressure monitoring system; automatic headlights; a blind spot driver’s mirror; a downhill brake control; a hillstart assist control; a backup camera; a remote keyless entry system; stability control system; a traction control system; and a compact spare tire